Stacey Tinsley | BIZ. Magazine
Bossier Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Lisa Johnson spoke with Congressman Mike Johnson about the ongoing negotiations for another Coronavirus aid package and what the potential bill could mean for unemployment benefits, a second stimulus and student loan deferment during last Monday’s “Chamber Chat.”
Johnson stated nearly 10 trillion dollars has been dispersed to Americans from the United States Federal Government to help with the economic impact the COVID-19 pandemic has caused.
“The big question on everyone’s mind is Phase 4. We know, everyone in Congress knows, the President knows, all of us know that there’s more to do. We have to remember in contexts where we are exactly in dealing with this unprecedented pandemic. If you add up everything that Congress has done in coordination with the President. It’s almost 10 trillion dollars. When you add up everything that was done with the Paycheck Protection Program disaster loans, the stimulus checks, all of that together you’re talking about 10 trillion dollars. It’s a staggering number to think about. It is by far the largest relief that the Federal government has ever engaged in its history,” said Congressman Johnson.
Congressman Johnson went on to mention a list of four primary items he thinks will be on the top of everyone’s mind: payroll tax deferral, housing relief, enhanced unemployment benefits and student loan relief.
“He’s pushed off the collection for September through the end of December of payroll taxes for anyone who makes under 100,000 dollars or less per year. It’s up to each employer to do that and make the decision to take advantage of that,” Congressman Johnson said.
“Part of the executive order the President defers collection of student loans through the end of the year. Until January 1,” he added.
