The 117th Congress, currently in session, has seen a flurry of legislative activity, with numerous bills passed that aim to address a wide range of issues. From infrastructure and economic recovery to social justice and healthcare, lawmakers have been busy shaping the nation's future.
As of now, the Congress has passed several significant bills, each with its own set of provisions designed to tackle various challenges. Let's delve into some of the key pieces of legislation that have made it through the House and Senate.
American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
The American Rescue Plan Act, signed into law by President Biden in March 2021, is a $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill aimed at speeding up the country's recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes provisions for direct financial relief to Americans, enhanced and extended unemployment benefits, and funding for vaccination distribution and COVID-19 testing.
One of the most notable aspects of this bill is the direct payments, which saw eligible Americans receive up to $1,400 per person, subject to income caps. Additionally, the bill expanded the Child Tax Credit, providing families with up to $3,600 per child under the age of six and up to $3,000 per child aged six to seventeen.
Economic Impact Payments
The bill provided for a third round of Economic Impact Payments, often referred to as stimulus checks. These direct payments were designed to provide immediate financial relief to Americans struggling due to the pandemic's economic fallout.
The payments were based on income and filing status, with individuals earning up to $75,000 and couples earning up to $150,000 receiving the full amount. Those with incomes above these thresholds received reduced amounts, and individuals earning more than $80,000 and couples earning more than $160,000 did not receive payments.
Unemployment Benefits Enhancement
The American Rescue Plan Act also enhanced and extended unemployment benefits. It provided an additional $300 per week in federal unemployment benefits, on top of state benefits, through September 6, 2021. This was an increase from the $600 per week provided by the CARES Act in 2020.
Moreover, the bill extended the number of weeks that individuals could receive unemployment benefits. It added 29 weeks of federally-funded benefits to the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) program and 53 weeks to the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program.
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
Passed in November 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is a $1.2 trillion package aimed at rebuilding the nation's infrastructure. The bill includes funding for roads, bridges, public transit, airports, and water systems, among other projects.
It is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth while improving the nation's infrastructure. The bill also includes provisions for broadband internet expansion, with $65 billion allocated to improve broadband infrastructure and increase access to high-speed internet in rural and low-income areas.
Roads and Bridges
The bill provides $110 billion for roads, bridges, and other major infrastructure projects. This includes $40 billion for bridge repair and replacement, the largest investment in bridges in U.S. history. The bill also includes funding for highway safety improvements and for repairing and rebuilding roads.
States will receive formula funding based on their share of the nation's road mileage and traffic. Additionally, the bill includes competitive grants for projects that demonstrate significant economic benefits or environmental and community impacts.
Public Transit
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provides $39 billion for public transit, the largest federal investment in public transit in history. This includes funding for capital projects, such as new buses and trains, and for operating assistance to help transit agencies maintain service during the pandemic.
The bill also includes funding for transit-oriented development, which aims to create walkable, mixed-use communities around public transit stations. Additionally, the bill provides funding for zero-emission buses and for improving the accessibility of public transit for people with disabilities.
As the 117th Congress continues its work, it remains to be seen what other significant bills will be passed. However, the American Rescue Plan Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act have already made a substantial impact on various aspects of American life. With each new piece of legislation, the Congress continues to shape the future of the nation, addressing the pressing issues of the day and laying the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient tomorrow.