Stimulus Relief??

When news of self quaratining first broke and restaurants, theaters and other social gathering places were closed, reports of a stimulus bill coming from Congress arose.  Most were skeptical when it was originally mentioned but as it passed through the Senate and went to Congress, it actually seemed as thought it would provide relief especially to businesses most impacted by the closures or reduction of force due to social distancing.  

Stimulus checks to indiviudals and families were also part of the bill.  The rules and requirements were argued between the Democrats and Republicans, but when it finally passed through both houses of Congress we were hopeful that Brett, Cal and Meg would receive the $1200 promised to each indiviudal.  Brett was in line to receive a new job at Macy's that was put on hold due to the pandemic and we were doubtful that either Meg or Cal would be able to easily find a summer job once the quaratine was lifted in April or May due to the amout of older adults re-entering the job market because of the layoffs.  Thus, the money would be very helpful to each of them.

Therefore, I was extremely disappinted today when I read several articles about the parameters of the stimlus checks.  Besides the "wealthy" - those making $75,000 as individuals and $150,000 as a couple, the other group not getting a relief check was anyone claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return.  That would include all college age students 18-24 that had been claimed by their parents.  I was sick when I read the news as it would exclude both Meg and Cal from receiving any government help.  We also would not receive any extra money for them as the only dependents covered under the bill were those seventeen and under.  

I couldn't believe it when I first read the information.  Our children were asked to forgo their time on campus, give up Spring Break travel, stay away from their elderly family members and now they would receive no help in paying college bills or for loss of rent.  The money would have really helped Meg and Cal, but they will be fine in the end even if they don't find a summer position.  It will definitely cut into their discretionary spending, but they will survive.  The real frustration is for students working to pay for college or whose family's are struggling to get buy while helping their college students to pay rent on a closed campus.  This group will also be disproportionately affected by coronavirus layoffs since nearly half work in service-sector jobs.  Thankfully, Brett should benefit from the help.  That will make a difference to him this summer and help him from dipping into his savings.