Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

As the U. S. marks a year since the coronavirus shuttered the economy, households are getting a fresh infusion of financial hope as the IRS begins distributing more than 100 million stimulus checks during the past two weeks. Yet Americans who continue to struggle financially fear the additional cash may only tide them over for a month or two. The IRS will send a total of $422 billion in stimulus checks over thee next several weeks, part of Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan signed into law earlier this month. It comes as the American economic recovery diverges between upper- income households that have largely weathered the crisis intact because of their ability to work safely from home and lower-income families that are more likely to still be struggling with joblessness or reduced income in service jobs that require them to work directly with the public. Some legislators are concerned that a large portion of the stimulus money is going to Americans who have not worked in years and already benefitting from system funding, programs, free or reduced housing and actually living much better than most working class who are really suffering. These legislators are not against people receiving funds. However, a close look needs to be made at the fact that they are already receiving all avenues of aid without working for it during this pandemic. Their receipt of stimulus takes away from those who are actually suffering. Many needy families plan to immediately use the money for basic expenses, such as covering the mortgage, car payments and utilities. Households have weathered the storm and certainly they will do whatever is best for them. Some people are still applying for jobs with no positive results due to COVID-19. They really want to work and earn a steady income so that they can take care of their families. While the stimulus check is appreciated, it is not considered a bonus to use aimlessly. Many people wonder if there will be an ongoing stimulus check since it appears that the pandemic is ongoing. No real response can be given at this time. Once you start something, it is like you have to continue it- it’s a process until the job is done. Hopefully, it will be done a few more times. Assuredly, this second stimulus check is not enough for people who are really in need. Keep in mind, there are deserving people who never got the first check. They are still looking for that one. Hopefully, they will receive both checks. Perhaps, the IRS system can rectify that situation. If you have not received your stimulus check yet, check your bank account or your mail.