The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year has thrown into disarray many of the legislative priorities Congress was hoping to tackle by year’s end. Since March, Congress has shifted its attention almost entirely to mitigating the impact of the virus, passing a series of packages aimed at bolstering support to those directly dealing with the outbreak, and to aid individuals and businesses experiencing financial hardship. As state economies gradually reopen, Congress has continued negotiations on additional COVID-oriented relief bills. It has also resumed consideration of “must pass” legislative vehicles, such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21) appropriations, and a surface transportation reauthorization bill. Other timely measures, such as police reform, have also received attention.
Read MoreAs policymakers seek to provide relief to key sectors of the national economy, they are considering the long-term benefits of investing in long overdue critical infrastructure projects.
Read MoreAs the COVID-19 outbreak and related restrictions continue, the congressional calendar, which was already compounded to accommodate for 2020 elections, will get tighter. Responding to the public health crisis and addressing the immediate economic impacts of the pandemic remain congressional priorities. However, policymakers are also looking at longer-term recovery options, as well as improving U.S. preparedness to respond to future public health threats. Furthermore, prior to the spread of the virus in the U.S., Congress was already confronting a number of looming policy expirations this year.
Read MorePlurus Strategies has been compiling a list of provisions, broken down by key industries, that could be a part of upcoming relief packages. As we continue to respond to the impacts of the pandemic, it’s important to have a good idea of what future bills could contain. The legislative situation is very fluid, and priorities and timelines continue to shift on a frequent basis. We are likely to see additional legislation that expands the role of government and allocates significantly more funding for the COVID-19 response.
Read MoreInfrastructure is viewed as an urgent bipartisan challenge in need of a solution, though finding a mutually acceptable resolution in an increasingly political time leading up to the November elections will prove tricky. Ultimately, efforts made now by Congress and the Administration may lay the groundwork for a broader infrastructure deal that might unfold post-2020.
Read MoreCommon knowledge may lead us to believe any hope of advancing policy in an election year is futile. Combine that trend with a divided Congress, a partisan atmosphere, and the imminent impeachment trial, and it’s easy to suggest 2020 will be a year for politics rather than policy. However, with a list of looming deadlines and the need to demonstrate the ability to not only investigate but also legislate, Congress is likely to have an active 12 months ahead.
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