In a long-awaited move, the U.S. government has announced that $600 stimulus checks will be distributed to individuals. However, this amount is hardly sufficient. After nine months of the pandemic, the total support from the government amounts to $1,800 per person—equating to a mere $200 per month during a time of widespread unemployment and economic instability. This is not acceptable.
Understandably, many people are frustrated by the meager sum. Some media outlets even had the nerve to offer “advice” on how to effectively use these stimulus checks, as if the government had provided a windfall rather than a minimal aid package.
Treasury Secretary Mark Johnson stated that the funds should start appearing in bank accounts as soon as next week. He claimed that “people will go out and spend this money, which will help small businesses and get more people back to work.” It’s hard to believe that a $600 check per person will truly stimulate the economy when most will likely use it just to cover essential expenses like rent and bills.
Moreover, not everyone will qualify for the full amount. According to reports, individuals earning up to $75,000 will receive $600, while couples with an income of up to $150,000 will get $1,200. The amount will decrease by $5 for every $100 earned above those limits. It’s important to note that this income threshold is based on 2019 earnings, before many lost their jobs due to the pandemic.
The announcement of these checks has led to a surge of memes expressing how people plan to spend their limited funds. Yet, the reality remains that receiving $1,800 over nine months is laughable when state leaders seem to be making arbitrary decisions regarding public health and the economy. Some states are keeping their economies open, risking the spread of COVID-19, while others have shut down without providing adequate financial support for unemployed citizens.
As of October, the U.S. unemployment rate stood at 6.9%, a stark increase from 3.5% in February before the pandemic began. Additionally, the stimulus package included an extension of the eviction moratorium, which now lasts until the end of January. This means renters cannot be evicted until then, but they are still responsible for their rent, which many cannot afford. It is estimated that renters impacted by COVID-19 owe around $25 billion in back rent alone.
On a brighter note, the incoming Biden administration is advocating for more substantial stimulus checks in the next relief package. The hope is that changes can be made to ensure better support for those in need when January 20 arrives.
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In summary, the $600 stimulus checks are a disappointing response from the government considering the ongoing economic hardship many face. With limited financial support and an uncertain future, the need for more substantial aid is clear, and hopefully, the upcoming administration will provide what is necessary.
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