rollcall--2020-03-19--Lack of federal telework transparency concerns DC-area lawmakers

Lawmakers from around the nation ’ s capital are continuing to press federal departments and agencies to expand telework during @ @ @ @ @ of Congress also want continuity of operations plans more publicly accessible .
The response to @ @ @ @ @ inconsistent decision-making by the federal government about the use of telework , even as the @ @ @ @ @ said the government is open with “ maximum telework flexibility ” for eligible employees .
@ @ @ @ @ everything has been a challenge in relation to the federal workforce , ” Sen. Benjamin @ @ @ @ @ Call .
“ So many things this administration has done have been counterproductive.
” The @ @ @ @ @ of clear direction from the top — likely exacerbated by the sudden departure of OPM @ @ @ @ @ week — shows the risks of not paying attention to the needs of the federal @ @

Lawmakers from around the nation’s capital are continuing to press federal departments and agencies to expand telework during the coronavirus pandemic.
Members of Congress also want continuity of operations plans more publicly accessible.
The response to the COVID-19 pandemic has featured inconsistent decision-making by the federal government about the use of telework, even as the Office of Personnel Management has said the government is open with “maximum telework flexibility” for eligible employees.
“With this administration, everything has been a challenge in relation to the federal workforce,” Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin told CQ Roll Call. “So many things this administration has done have been counterproductive.”
The Maryland Democrat said the lack of clear direction from the top — likely exacerbated by the sudden departure of OPM Director Dale Cabaniss earlier this week — shows the risks of not paying attention to the needs of the federal workforce.


rollcall--2020-03-19--Connecticut joins states delaying elections, moves presidential primary to June 2

Connecticut has joined a growing list of states postponing elections in response to the coronavirus pandemic .
Gov .
Ned @ @ @ @ @ state ’ s presidential primaries , scheduled for April 28 , would now take place @ @ @ @ @ In coordination with other states and our Secretary of the State , and in an @ @ @ @ @ while keeping public health a top priority , I have decided to move our presidential @ @ @ @ @ ” the Democratic governor wrote , promising more information later Thursday .
Connecticut is the @ @ @ @ @ postpone elections as the nation grapples with the pandemic .
The state ’ s congressional @ @ @ @ @ 11 .
Other states postponing their primaries include Louisiana , Georgia , Kentucky , Ohio @ @ @ @ @ pushing back its primary runoff elections until July .

Connecticut has joined a growing list of states postponing elections in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Gov. Ned Lamont tweeted Thursday that the state’s presidential primaries, scheduled for April 28, would now take place on June 2.
“In coordination with other states and our Secretary of the State, and in an effort to carry out Democracy while keeping public health a top priority, I have decided to move our presidential primary to June 2nd,” the Democratic governor wrote, promising more information later Thursday.
Connecticut is the seventh state so far to postpone elections as the nation grapples with the pandemic. The state’s congressional primaries are scheduled for Aug. 11.
Other states postponing their primaries include Louisiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Ohio and Maryland. Alabama is pushing back its primary runoff elections until July.


rollcall--2020-03-19--FDA walks back Trump claims on COVID-19 drugs

Trump likened the FDA ’ s approach to “ Right to Try , ” an approach championed by conservatives and libertarians that allows for patients with fatal illnesses to be treated with unapproved therapies .
The key difference between “ Right to Try ” and FDA ’ s compassionate use is that doctors , patients and drug companies that participate don ’ t need to get the FDA to approve the individual course of treatment .
The “ Right to Try ” law signed by Trump in May 2018 came after years of opposition by the pharmaceutical industry , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experimental drugs outside of controlled clinical trials could result in lawsuits or make it harder to win FDA approval if a patient ’ s condition did not improve or there were adverse side effects .
The final law provided protections for participating drug companies .
But since it was implemented , there have been only a handful of instances of “ Right to Try ” being used , and most drug companies prefer to use the FDA ’ s compassionate use process .
The agency says it typically approves the vast majority of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Try ” policy was intended by lawmakers as a last resort for patients with a rare , lethal disease .
Epidemiologists project that as much as 70 percent of the U.S. population could eventually be infected with the novel coronavirus , making the circumvention of typical safety standards more risky .
Hahn appeared to walk back the idea that “ Right to Try ” was the FDA ’ s desired approach in this case , arguing that the FDA needed the patient use data to make an informed decision about whether the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the broader population .

Trump likened the FDA’s approach to “Right to Try,” an approach championed by conservatives and libertarians that allows for patients with fatal illnesses to be treated with unapproved therapies. The key difference between “Right to Try” and FDA’s compassionate use is that doctors, patients and drug companies that participate don’t need to get the FDA to approve the individual course of treatment.
The “Right to Try” law signed by Trump in May 2018 came after years of opposition by the pharmaceutical industry, which was afraid that more liberal distribution of experimental drugs outside of controlled clinical trials could result in lawsuits or make it harder to win FDA approval if a patient’s condition did not improve or there were adverse side effects.
The final law provided protections for participating drug companies. But since it was implemented, there have been only a handful of instances of “Right to Try” being used, and most drug companies prefer to use the FDA’s compassionate use process. The agency says it typically approves the vast majority of requests expeditiously.
And the “Right to Try” policy was intended by lawmakers as a last resort for patients with a rare, lethal disease. Epidemiologists project that as much as 70 percent of the U.S. population could eventually be infected with the novel coronavirus, making the circumvention of typical safety standards more risky.
Hahn appeared to walk back the idea that “Right to Try” was the FDA’s desired approach in this case, arguing that the FDA needed the patient use data to make an informed decision about whether the drugs would ultimately be safe and effective for the broader population.


rollcall--2020-03-19--DOE moves to fill reserves as oil prices plummet

The Energy Department has started soliciting crude oil from small and midsize producers to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and @ @ @ @ @ demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic and disruptions created by Saudi Arabia and Russia .
@ @ @ @ @ buy 30 million barrels and ramp up its total purchase to 77 million barrels — @ @ @ @ @ reserves to the brim .
“ The purpose of this is to mitigate these types @ @ @ @ @ of Energy Dan Brouillette told reporters Thursday .
He said the federal government is also @ @ @ @ @ prices to purchase the oil .
“ If you believe in the purpose of the @ @ @ @ @ perfect time to make sure it ’ s full , ” Brouillette said .

The Energy Department has started soliciting crude oil from small and midsize producers to fill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and soften the blow of lower demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic and disruptions created by Saudi Arabia and Russia.
The government plans to initially buy 30 million barrels and ramp up its total purchase to 77 million barrels — enough to fill the strategic reserves to the brim.
“The purpose of this is to mitigate these types of disruptions,” Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette told reporters Thursday.
He said the federal government is also taking advantage of current low prices to purchase the oil.
“If you believe in the purpose of the SPR, now is the perfect time to make sure it’s full,” Brouillette said.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Trump ally Debbie Lesko gains clout

Trump ally Debbie Lesko gains clout

Debbie Lesko says she does best when she speaks from the heart , and her vociferous speeches on the House Judiciary Committee have made her a star in conservative media , garnered high praise from the White House and earned her an unexpected spot on President Donald Trump ’ s defense team during the Senate trial .
The Arizona Republican was initially angling for a seat on the Energy and Commerce panel last year when she was asked to join Judiciary by then-ranking member Doug Collins , the Georgia Republican .
While she was initially skeptical , the decision has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I ’ m glad I was asked to be on [ Judiciary ] because it put me right in the middle of impeachment , ” said Lesko .
“ I ’ m in the middle of history .
This is a big deal.
” Unlike many of her colleagues on the committee , Lesko , 61 , does not have a legal background — before her political career she worked in construction sales .
But as the Democrats moved to impeach Trump for pressuring Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firm belief that Trump did not do anything wrong .
She says she never had any doubt about the president ’ s innocence , even as more details emerged and witnesses testified .

Debbie Lesko says she does best when she speaks from the heart, and her vociferous speeches on the House Judiciary Committee have made her a star in conservative media, garnered high praise from the White House and earned her an unexpected spot on President Donald Trump’s defense team during the Senate trial.
The Arizona Republican was initially angling for a seat on the Energy and Commerce panel last year when she was asked to join Judiciary by then-ranking member Doug Collins, the Georgia Republican. While she was initially skeptical, the decision has given her a platform she never anticipated.
[‘Force multiplier’: House Republicans reflect on aiding Trump impeachment defense]
“I’m glad I was asked to be on [Judiciary] because it put me right in the middle of impeachment,” said Lesko. “I’m in the middle of history. This is a big deal.”
Unlike many of her colleagues on the committee, Lesko, 61, does not have a legal background — before her political career she worked in construction sales. But as the Democrats moved to impeach Trump for pressuring Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden, she was armed with a firm belief that Trump did not do anything wrong. She says she never had any doubt about the president’s innocence, even as more details emerged and witnesses testified.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Entrepreneurs hope ally Klobuchar stays in spotlight

For the past few weeks , John Dearie , the founder of the nonprofit Center for American Entrepreneurship , has clung to a dream .
His handpicked co-chair of the Senate Entrepreneurship Caucus , Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar , might become the next vice president of the United States .
In the summer of 2018 , long before Klobuchar entered the presidential race , Dearie recruited her and Sen. Tim Scott , a South Carolina Republican and former owner of an insurance agency , to serve as the leaders of the newly formed group dedicated to removing barriers for startups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this to be a caucus for white men , ” he said , adding that he ’ d heard the two lawmakers were “ well-liked , knowledgeable and got things done.
” Six months later , Klobuchar announced her presidential bid .
On Feb. 11 , she finished a strong third in the New Hampshire primary .
With her home state of Minnesota holding its primary March 3 , Klobuchar seemed to peak at the right time .
“ I felt like the owner of a racehorse that was about to win the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview .
While he stressed that his organization is nonpartisan and doesn ’ t endorse candidates , he admitted he was thrilled by the idea “ of all the things we could get done if she ’ s in the White House .
”

Corrected 1:00 p.m. | For the past few weeks, John Dearie, the founder of the nonprofit Center for American Entrepreneurship, has clung to a dream. His handpicked co-chair of the Senate Entrepreneurship Caucus, Minnesota Democrat Amy Klobuchar, might become the next vice president of the United States.
In the summer of 2018, long before Klobuchar entered the presidential race, Dearie recruited her and Sen. Tim Scott, a South Carolina Republican and former owner of an insurance agency, to serve as the leaders of the newly formed group dedicated to removing barriers for startups.
“We didn’t want this to be a caucus for white men,” he said, adding that he’d heard the two lawmakers were “well-liked, knowledgeable and got things done.”
Six months later, Klobuchar announced her presidential bid. On Feb. 11, she finished a strong third in the New Hampshire primary. With her home state of Minnesota holding its primary March 3, Klobuchar seemed to peak at the right time.
“I felt like the owner of a racehorse that was about to win the prize,” Dearie said in an interview. While he stressed that his organization is nonpartisan and doesn’t endorse candidates, he admitted he was thrilled by the idea “of all the things we could get done if she’s in the White House.”


rollcall--2020-03-20--States scramble for their fair share of federal pandemic aid

While it has not yet triggered a war between the states , the COVID-19 pandemic is sure to set up a competition among them as they scramble for limited federal resources .
As it becomes clearer the country doesn ’ t have the equipment it needs to test for or treat COVID-19 , state and local officials are urging Congress and administration to prioritize funding and supplies to sustain a continued public health response .
The Strategic National Stockpile , a program managed by the Department of Health and Human Services , allots supplies to states and four large metropolitan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ County , Chicago and the District of Columbia — based on population figures from the 2010 Census .
But states seeking equipment like respirator masks , gowns and gloves for health care workers who treat potential COVID-19 cases are already reaching their full allotment , exposing a difficult aspect of the pandemic .
“ That ’ s what the challenge is going to be , ” said Juliette Kayyem , a professor at Harvard ’ s Kennedy School of Public Policy and former assistant secretary for Homeland Security in the Obama administration .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ approach with 50 states vying for limited resources ?
” The first $ 8.3 billion federal relief package included $ 950 million for state and local health agencies .
But with Seattle ’ s King County spending $ 100 million , Matthew Chase , executive director of the National Association of Counties , said that should be considered a “ down payment ” as continued funding would be needed to help local health officials treat the crisis for months .

While it has not yet triggered a war between the states, the COVID-19 pandemic is sure to set up a competition among them as they scramble for limited federal resources.
As it becomes clearer the country doesn’t have the equipment it needs to test for or treat COVID-19, state and local officials are urging Congress and administration to prioritize funding and supplies to sustain a continued public health response.
The Strategic National Stockpile, a program managed by the Department of Health and Human Services, allots supplies to states and four large metropolitan areas — New York, Los Angeles County, Chicago and the District of Columbia — based on population figures from the 2010 Census. But states seeking equipment like respirator masks, gowns and gloves for health care workers who treat potential COVID-19 cases are already reaching their full allotment, exposing a difficult aspect of the pandemic.
“That’s what the challenge is going to be,” said Juliette Kayyem, a professor at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Public Policy and former assistant secretary for Homeland Security in the Obama administration. “How do you have a united approach with 50 states vying for limited resources?”
The first $8.3 billion federal relief package included $950 million for state and local health agencies. But with Seattle’s King County spending $100 million, Matthew Chase, executive director of the National Association of Counties, said that should be considered a “down payment” as continued funding would be needed to help local health officials treat the crisis for months.


rollcall--2020-03-20--States, schools work on health worker shortage due to virus

States and medical organizations are taking steps to prevent health care workforce shortages , which could emerge because those on the front lines are among the most at risk for contracting COVID-19 .
Loosening licensure requirements is a big part of these efforts in many states .
Half of the U.S. residents exposed to confirmed COVID-19 cases were health care workers , according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data issued last week .
“ This trend will accelerate in the coming weeks and months , as health care workers increasingly come into contact with patients with COVID-19 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ equipment worsen , ” reads a Health Affairs post published Wednesday .
“ New infections among health care workers may skyrocket.
” In an effort to ease some workforce shortage concerns , Vice President Mike Pence announced an emergency order Wednesday requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to move toward allowing physicians to practice across state lines .
Some states have already taken steps toward easing licensing restrictions for providers , and the federal move could make it easier to focus resources on areas that have been especially hard hit .

States and medical organizations are taking steps to prevent health care workforce shortages, which could emerge because those on the front lines are among the most at risk for contracting COVID-19. Loosening licensure requirements is a big part of these efforts in many states.
Half of the U.S. residents exposed to confirmed COVID-19 cases were health care workers, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data issued last week.
“This trend will accelerate in the coming weeks and months, as health care workers increasingly come into contact with patients with COVID-19 and shortages of masks and other personal protective equipment worsen,” reads a Health Affairs post published Wednesday. “New infections among health care workers may skyrocket.”
[CDC suggests nurses use bandanas, scarves during face mask shortage]
In an effort to ease some workforce shortage concerns, Vice President Mike Pence announced an emergency order Wednesday requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to move toward allowing physicians to practice across state lines. Some states have already taken steps toward easing licensing restrictions for providers, and the federal move could make it easier to focus resources on areas that have been especially hard hit.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Undisclosed delays plague atomic programs, cost billions to fix

The Trump administration wants $ 3.1 billion more this year than last for the Energy Department 's nuclear weapons budget , but internal government documents show the raise is devoted substantially to covering previously undisclosed cost overruns and avoiding years of new delays in the majority of U.S. atomic weapons programs .
The administration has sold the 25 percent budget boost for the National Nuclear Security Administration only in broad terms as necessary to maintain America ’ s nuclear deterrent .
However , the additional funds are needed not so much to advance capabilities as merely to keep troubled programs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the “ official use only ” correspondence obtained by CQ Roll Call .
[ Defense contractors are unlikely to pivot to coronavirus response ] Specifically , four of the NNSA ’ s six highest-profile atomic arms programs would be delayed unless the NNSA gets a record budget of nearly $ 20 billion in fiscal 2021 and maintains that higher level in the years that follow .
The subset of the fiscal 2021 request that would go to weapons programs would total $ 15.6 billion , compared to $ 12.5 billion in the current @ @ @ @ @ @ @ request is the latest example of the agency ’ s long-running inability to foresee the cost and complexity of its projects , critics say .
The fiscal 2021 budget request was the fourth consecutive one that came in higher than had been planned the previous year .

The Trump administration wants $3.1 billion more this year than last for the Energy Department's nuclear weapons budget, but internal government documents show the raise is devoted substantially to covering previously undisclosed cost overruns and avoiding years of new delays in the majority of U.S. atomic weapons programs.
The administration has sold the 25 percent budget boost for the National Nuclear Security Administration only in broad terms as necessary to maintain America’s nuclear deterrent. However, the additional funds are needed not so much to advance capabilities as merely to keep troubled programs from falling further behind, according to the “official use only” correspondence obtained by CQ Roll Call.
[Defense contractors are unlikely to pivot to coronavirus response]
Specifically, four of the NNSA’s six highest-profile atomic arms programs would be delayed unless the NNSA gets a record budget of nearly $20 billion in fiscal 2021 and maintains that higher level in the years that follow. The subset of the fiscal 2021 request that would go to weapons programs would total $15.6 billion, compared to $12.5 billion in the current fiscal year.
The new NNSA budget request is the latest example of the agency’s long-running inability to foresee the cost and complexity of its projects, critics say. The fiscal 2021 budget request was the fourth consecutive one that came in higher than had been planned the previous year.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Federal judges: From political players to lifetime appointments

Rhode Islander John “ Jack ” McConnell Jr. and Texan James “ Jim ” Ho are on opposite ends of @ @ @ @ @ their paths to lifetime appointments as federal judges are remarkably similar .
Both enthusiastically contributed @ @ @ @ @ were nominated to become federal judges .
They were two of the biggest donors to @ @ @ @ @ Committee in recent memory .
Both had supported organizations that drew partisan rebuke .
McConnell @ @ @ @ @ a perennial target of conservative critics for its work providing abortion services .
Ho worked @ @ @ @ @ , perceived by many on the left as anti-LGBTQ .
Both were active in party @ @ @ @ @ Republicans and McConnell supported Democrats .
After they were nominated , Republicans criticized McConnell and @ @ @ @ @ taking shots for baggage they defended in their own nominees .

Ilana Marcus, Joshua Eaton, and Ed Timms

Rhode Islander John “Jack” McConnell Jr. and Texan James “Jim” Ho are on opposite ends of the political spectrum. But their paths to lifetime appointments as federal judges are remarkably similar.
Both enthusiastically contributed to political campaigns before they were nominated to become federal judges. They were two of the biggest donors to members of the Senate Judiciary Committee in recent memory.
Both had supported organizations that drew partisan rebuke. McConnell volunteered with Planned Parenthood, a perennial target of conservative critics for its work providing abortion services. Ho worked with the First Liberty Institute, perceived by many on the left as anti-LGBTQ.
Both were active in party politics, although Ho supported Republicans and McConnell supported Democrats.
After they were nominated, Republicans criticized McConnell and Democrats attacked Ho, sometimes taking shots for baggage they defended in their own nominees.


rollcall--2020-03-20--GOP stimulus bill would give DeVos authority to defer student loan payments, extend flexibility to s

GOP stimulus bill would give DeVos authority to defer student loan payments, extend flexibility to schools

Senate Republicans ’ economic stimulus package unveiled Thursday includes provisions aimed at shielding students and student loan borrowers from unintended @ @ @ @ @ pandemic .
As student loan borrowers may have more trouble making regular payments , the @ @ @ @ @ Betsy DeVos the ability to defer payments , principal and interest , for three months @ @ @ @ @ for an additional three months if needed , according to a summary issued by the @ @ @ @ @ Labor and Pensions Committee .
“ The legislation allows students to defer payment on their @ @ @ @ @ their Pell grants and gives the Education Secretary flexibility to waive federal academic testing and @ @ @ @ @ HELP Chairman Lamar Alexander said in a statement .
But the measure doesn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ Democrats have proposed .

Senate Republicans’ economic stimulus package unveiled Thursday includes provisions aimed at shielding students and student loan borrowers from unintended financial consequences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As student loan borrowers may have more trouble making regular payments, the bill would give Education Secretary Betsy DeVos the ability to defer payments, principal and interest, for three months.
She could defer them for an additional three months if needed, according to a summary issued by the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee.
“The legislation allows students to defer payment on their student loans and to keep their Pell grants and gives the Education Secretary flexibility to waive federal academic testing and accountability rules,” Senate HELP Chairman Lamar Alexander said in a statement.
But the measure doesn’t go as far as Senate Democrats have proposed.


rollcall--2020-03-20--GOP bill backstops money market funds, aids small firms’ costs

The fiscal stimulus bill introduced by Senate Republicans on Thursday includes changes that would allow the Treasury Department to use @ @ @ @ @ to guarantee money market mutual funds .
It would also appropriate almost $ 300 billion @ @ @ @ @ Senate proposal would lift a restriction put on the Treasury 's Exchange Stabilization Fund by @ @ @ @ @ Troubled Asset Relief Program during the 2008 financial crisis .
That provision prohibited the secretary @ @ @ @ @ guaranty programs for the United States money market mutual fund industry.
” The Federal Reserve @ @ @ @ @ was creating a Money Market Mutual Fund Liquidity Facility backed by $ 10 billion from @ @ @ @ @ The Treasury Department used the fund to backstop the money market funds after Lehman Brothers @ @ @ @ @ the sector into chaos .
The purpose of the Exchange Stabilization Fund is to allow @ @ @ @ @ stable exchange rates by dealing in gold , foreign currencies and other credit instruments .

The fiscal stimulus bill introduced by Senate Republicans on Thursday includes changes that would allow the Treasury Department to use its exchange rate stabilization fund to guarantee money market mutual funds. It would also appropriate almost $300 billion for small-business loans.
The Senate proposal would lift a restriction put on the Treasury's Exchange Stabilization Fund by the law that created the Troubled Asset Relief Program during the 2008 financial crisis. That provision prohibited the secretary from establishing “any future guaranty programs for the United States money market mutual fund industry.”
The Federal Reserve announced late Wednesday that it was creating a Money Market Mutual Fund Liquidity Facility backed by $10 billion from the Exchange Stabilization Fund.
The Treasury Department used the fund to backstop the money market funds after Lehman Brothers’ collapse in 2008 threw the sector into chaos.
The purpose of the Exchange Stabilization Fund is to allow the Treasury secretary to maintain stable exchange rates by dealing in gold, foreign currencies and other credit instruments.


rollcall--2020-03-19--Senate dining operations substantially scaled back because of COVID-19

Corrected 8:23 p.m. | As the Senate works on a $ 1 trillion aid package to mitigate the disastrous economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic , food service workers supporting the business of the chamber will work reduced operating hours , according to a directive obtained Thursday by CQ Roll Call .
Coffee Shop , American Grill , Dirksen Buffet , Refectory , Inside Scoop and Cups & Company will all be closed .
The Dirksen Cafe will remain open from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m .
The Senate Dining Room will be open from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a.m. until 5 p.m. or until the last scheduled vote , with a 9 p.m. cutoff .
The hours of operation apply to weekdays .
Lawrence Barr , the acting Senate superintendent , said in an email that the changes to restaurant operations and hours were among the steps being taken “ to actively practice social distancing by modifying operations to reduce interactions across campus.
” Food service is provided by two contractors in the Senate : Restaurant Associates and KSC Inc. “ All Senate staff will remain on payroll from March 16 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 , ” said Sam Souccar , a spokesman for Restaurant Associates .
“ During this time period , no employee will have to use any accrued personal time , unless they had a previously scheduled and approved request .
All full-time employees will be paid a full day ’ s wage ( 8 hours ) .
”

Corrected 8:23 p.m. | As the Senate works on a $1 trillion aid package to mitigate the disastrous economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, food service workers supporting the business of the chamber will work reduced operating hours, according to a directive obtained Thursday by CQ Roll Call.
Coffee Shop, American Grill, Dirksen Buffet, Refectory, Inside Scoop and Cups & Company will all be closed. The Dirksen Cafe will remain open from 7:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. The Senate Dining Room will be open from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Senate Carryout will be accessible from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. or until the last scheduled vote, with a 9 p.m. cutoff. The hours of operation apply to weekdays.
Lawrence Barr, the acting Senate superintendent, said in an email that the changes to restaurant operations and hours were among the steps being taken “to actively practice social distancing by modifying operations to reduce interactions across campus.”
Food service is provided by two contractors in the Senate: Restaurant Associates and KSC Inc.
“All Senate staff will remain on payroll from March 16, 2020, to March 27, 2020,” said Sam Souccar, a spokesman for Restaurant Associates. “During this time period, no employee will have to use any accrued personal time, unless they had a previously scheduled and approved request. All full-time employees will be paid a full day’s wage (8 hours).”


rollcall--2020-03-20--Coronavirus Special Report: Evening update, 3/20

We are delving deeper into the stimulus bill that key senators and the White House hope to have a deal @ @ @ @ @ look at it from a budgetary , political and health policy perspective as it heads @ @ @ @ @ next week .
• Health industry scrambles for funding in third coronavirus bill • States @ @ @ @ @ of federal pandemic aid

Micaela Rodríguez and Mary Ellen McIntire

We are delving deeper into the stimulus bill that key senators and the White House hope to have a deal on later Friday. We look at it from a budgetary, political and health policy perspective as it heads toward a potential vote early next week.
Show notes:


rollcall--2020-03-20--US ports did better with exports than imports as virus spread

The nation ’ s ports are navigating a coronavirus-induced downturn in goods volumes , ranging from severe to moderate depending @ @ @ @ @ they also are shipping more exports .
And most ports expect an upturn in April @ @ @ @ @ are expected to turn into increased container flows .
“ What we predict is trade @ @ @ @ @ and then it will come back with a roar , ” said Joseph D. Harris @ @ @ @ @ Virginia Port Authority , which operates terminals in Hampton Roads .
The snapshot of ports @ @ @ @ @ U.S. endures a deep economic shock caused by steps to contain the COVID-19 pandemic , @ @ @ @ @ how the coronavirus is affecting international trade .
President Donald Trump has limited movement across @ @ @ @ @ avoided doing so on cargo .

The nation’s ports are navigating a coronavirus-induced downturn in goods volumes, ranging from severe to moderate depending on China exposure, but they also are shipping more exports.
And most ports expect an upturn in April as factory restarts in China are expected to turn into increased container flows.
“What we predict is trade will come back slowly, and then it will come back with a roar,” said Joseph D. Harris, a spokesman for the Virginia Port Authority, which operates terminals in Hampton Roads.
[Business group finds coronavirus disrupting supplies in South China]
The snapshot of ports activity, coming as the U.S. endures a deep economic shock caused by steps to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, is an early indication of how the coronavirus is affecting international trade. President Donald Trump has limited movement across borders but so far has avoided doing so on cargo.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Nurses’ union makes plea for supplies, COVID-19 tests

The second-largest nurses ’ union called Friday for more emergency supplies and COVID-19 tests , as health care providers continue @ @ @ @ @ ability to provide care on the front lines .
The American Federation of Teachers , @ @ @ @ @ nurses and educators , also said it is still pushing for a policy that it @ @ @ @ @ package : directing an emergency temporary standing order from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration @ @ @ @ @ require that hospitals and other facilities adhere to infectious disease control protocols and shield nurses @ @ @ @ @ providing proper protective equipment .
Violators would be penalized .
While it was part of @ @ @ @ @ did not make it into the second COVID-19 law .
Hospitals groups including the American @ @ @ @ @ supporters last week to urge lawmakers to eliminate the provision in the bill , arguing @ @ @ @ @ difficult to implement due to the shortage of masks .

The second-largest nurses’ union called Friday for more emergency supplies and COVID-19 tests, as health care providers continue to express concerns about their ability to provide care on the front lines.
The American Federation of Teachers, a 300,000-member group that represents nurses and educators, also said it is still pushing for a policy that it sought in the second COVID-19 package: directing an emergency temporary standing order from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
A standing order would require that hospitals and other facilities adhere to infectious disease control protocols and shield nurses from exposure to COVID-19 by providing proper protective equipment. Violators would be penalized.
While it was part of recent negotiations, the language did not make it into the second COVID-19 law.
Hospitals groups including the American Hospital Association called on their supporters last week to urge lawmakers to eliminate the provision in the bill, arguing that it would be be difficult to implement due to the shortage of masks.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Trump has a good ‘feeling’ about treating COVID-19 with a malaria drug. Fauci says it’s too early to

Trump has a good ‘feeling’ about treating COVID-19 with a malaria drug. Fauci says it’s too early to tell

President Donald Trump and the nation ’ s top infectious disease expert differed at a briefing Friday over whether an @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 .
Trump said he hoped the drug , hydroxychloroquine , would be effective in @ @ @ @ @ been labeled a worldwide pandemic .
Anthony Fauci , director of the National Institute of @ @ @ @ @ cautioned that it is too early to make predictions .
[ Health industry scrambles for @ @ @ @ @ ] Trump acknowledged his thoughts were based on `` just a feeling '' he had @ @ @ @ @ smart guy , '' and said he hoped the drug could treat the new coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ currently in clinical trials to treat COVID-19 .
“ I am a man that comes @ @ @ @ @ when it comes to , in particular , one of these drugs , and we @ @ @ @ @ works out , ” Trump said .

President Donald Trump and the nation’s top infectious disease expert differed at a briefing Friday over whether an antimalarial drug would effectively treat COVID-19.
Trump said he hoped the drug, hydroxychloroquine, would be effective in treating the virus that has been labeled a worldwide pandemic. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, cautioned that it is too early to make predictions.
[Health industry scrambles for funding in third coronavirus bill]
Trump acknowledged his thoughts were based on "just a feeling" he had, calling himself "a smart guy," and said he hoped the drug could treat the new coronavirus. The drug is not currently in clinical trials to treat COVID-19.
“I am a man that comes from a very positive school when it comes to, in particular, one of these drugs, and we’ll see how it works out,” Trump said.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Census delays all operations amid pandemic concerns

The Census Bureau announced Friday it will push back many of its efforts connected to the 2020 census and dip @ @ @ @ @ contingency fund to keep the count on track after being diverted by the coronavirus pandemic @ @ @ @ @ run through mid-August as the agency works to meet an end-of-year deadline to deliver the @ @ @ @ @ of Congress .
Census Bureau deputy director Al Fontenot told reporters Friday the agency is @ @ @ @ @ the process .
“ Of all of our worst nightmares of things that could have @ @ @ @ @ , we did not anticipate this set of actions , ” Fontenot said .
He @ @ @ @ @ the best way to help census operations would be to respond online , over the @ @ @ @ @ form .
About 18.6 million households have responded on their own so far , and @ @ @ @ @ a map of all response rates down to the county level starting Friday night .

The Census Bureau announced Friday it will push back many of its efforts connected to the 2020 census and dip into a $2 billion contingency fund to keep the count on track after being diverted by the coronavirus pandemic.
The census will now run through mid-August as the agency works to meet an end-of-year deadline to deliver the numbers that determine the makeup of Congress. Census Bureau deputy director Al Fontenot told reporters Friday the agency is also considering more changes to the process.
[Census delays outreach due to coronavirus concerns]
“Of all of our worst nightmares of things that could have gone wrong with the census, we did not anticipate this set of actions,” Fontenot said.
He and other census officials emphasized the best way to help census operations would be to respond online, over the phone or through a paper form. About 18.6 million households have responded on their own so far, and the agency plans to publish a map of all response rates down to the county level starting Friday night.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Court gathers by phone, YouTube for short-term health plan case

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C .
Circuit heard oral arguments by phone Friday in a case challenging @ @ @ @ @ short-term health plan rule , showcasing the difficulty of holding proceedings virtually during the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ health care groups that argue the rule violates the 2010 health care law and the @ @ @ @ @ the rule made their arguments to the three-judge panel via a teleconference streamed on YouTube @ @ @ @ @ , leaving counsel unable to hear a judge ’ s question .
At another point @ @ @ @ @ from the call .
“ It ’ s kind of a mess , ” Judge @ @ @ @ @ W. Bush appointee , said as he rejoined the call after he said he was @ @ @ @ @ minutes .
Still , the judges and attorneys pressed on .
The arguments fell three @ @ @ @ @ Monday of President Barack Obama signing the 2010 health care law .

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit heard oral arguments by phone Friday in a case challenging the Trump administration’s short-term health plan rule, showcasing the difficulty of holding proceedings virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lawyers for seven health care groups that argue the rule violates the 2010 health care law and the Department of Justice lawyer defending the rule made their arguments to the three-judge panel via a teleconference streamed on YouTube that at times cut out, leaving counsel unable to hear a judge’s question. At another point, one judge was dropped from the call.
[Big Supreme Court opinions could come amid coronavirus outbreak]
“It’s kind of a mess,” Judge Thomas Griffith, a George W. Bush appointee, said as he rejoined the call after he said he was dropped for five or six minutes.
Still, the judges and attorneys pressed on. The arguments fell three days before the 10th anniversary Monday of President Barack Obama signing the 2010 health care law.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Health industry scrambles for funding in third coronavirus bill

The $ 1 trillion COVID-19 Senate GOP stimulus bill is filled with provisions the health care industry has long desired and could help bolster the response to the pandemic , but it also contains loosely related health care measures that members have struggled to advance in a divided Congress where little legislating has been accomplished .
The bill would increase funding for hospitals but Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. , says it falls short of the “ Marshall Plan ” needed for increasing health care system capacity , and notes the additional money would come from extra @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Labs struggling to keep up with testing demand and front-line health workers running out of protective equipment also view the measure as inadequate .
The bill also includes provisions related to mental health and substance use treatment that arguably has nothing to do with responding to COVID-19 that have been sought for years by the insurance industry and doctors ' groups but that patient groups have opposed .
Congress is similarly divided over the changes .
And proposed changes to federal procurement and investment in drugs and medical supplies would likely support @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen as industry giveaways — even as Democrats seek more money for hospitals .

Lauren Clason, Emily Kopp, Sandhya Raman, and Andrew Siddons

The $1 trillion COVID-19 Senate GOP stimulus bill is filled with provisions the health care industry has long desired and could help bolster the response to the pandemic, but it also contains loosely related health care measures that members have struggled to advance in a divided Congress where little legislating has been accomplished.
The bill would increase funding for hospitals but Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., says it falls short of the “Marshall Plan” needed for increasing health care system capacity, and notes the additional money would come from extra reimbursements rather than a direct cash infusion.
Labs struggling to keep up with testing demand and front-line health workers running out of protective equipment also view the measure as inadequate.
The bill also includes provisions related to mental health and substance use treatment that arguably has nothing to do with responding to COVID-19 that have been sought for years by the insurance industry and doctors' groups but that patient groups have opposed. Congress is similarly divided over the changes.
And proposed changes to federal procurement and investment in drugs and medical supplies would likely support the COVID-19 response but could also be seen as industry giveaways — even as Democrats seek more money for hospitals.


rollcall--2020-03-20--How this congresswoman is using yoga (and not the Peloton bike) to stay sane in quarantine

Heard on the Hill caught up with Rep. Stephanie Murphy , an avid runner who has been self-quarantining after coming @ @ @ @ @ member of Congress who was diagnosed with COVID-19 .
“ Exercise is so critical to @ @ @ @ @ least for me , it ’ s a stress reliever , ” the Florida Democrat @ @ @ @ @ Friday morning .

Heard on the Hill caught up with Rep. Stephanie Murphy, an avid runner who has been self-quarantining after coming into contact with a fellow member of Congress who was diagnosed with COVID-19.
“Exercise is so critical to your mental health — at least for me, it’s a stress reliever,” the Florida Democrat said in a Skype interview Friday morning.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Primary runoff election to fill Rep. Mark Meadows’ seat is delayed

North Carolina election officials are postponing the Republican primary runoff in retiring GOP Rep. Mark Meadows ’ district , citing concerns about the new coronavirus .
Karen Brinson Bell , the executive director of the state board of elections , issued an emergency executive order Friday afternoon postponing the May 12 runoff for the 11th District in Western North Carolina to June 23 .
Real estate agent and GOP activist Lynda Bennett , whom Meadows endorsed ahead of the March 3 primary , was the top vote-getter in that race among a field that included 11 other candidates , all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than 30 percent of the vote and faces a runoff against 25 year-old real estate investor Madison Cawthorn , who came in second .
The eventual winner will face Democrat Moe Davis , a retired Air Force colonel , in November .
Meadows announced in December he would not seek another term .
President Donald Trump announced March 6 that Meadows would be the next White House chief of staff .
The congressman has remained a member of the House , however .
Whoever wins the GOP runoff is expected to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 11th District , which President Donald Trump would have won by 17 points in 2016 , according to calculations by Daily Kos Elections , under the new North Carolina congressional map drawn last year .

North Carolina election officials are postponing the Republican primary runoff in retiring GOP Rep. Mark Meadows’ district, citing concerns about the new coronavirus.
Karen Brinson Bell, the executive director of the state board of elections, issued an emergency executive order Friday afternoon postponing the May 12 runoff for the 11th District in Western North Carolina to June 23.
Real estate agent and GOP activist Lynda Bennett, whom Meadows endorsed ahead of the March 3 primary, was the top vote-getter in that race among a field that included 11 other candidates, all men. But she failed to get more than 30 percent of the vote and faces a runoff against 25 year-old real estate investor Madison Cawthorn, who came in second. The eventual winner will face Democrat Moe Davis, a retired Air Force colonel, in November.
Meadows announced in December he would not seek another term. President Donald Trump announced March 6 that Meadows would be the next White House chief of staff. The congressman has remained a member of the House, however.
Whoever wins the GOP runoff is expected to have an advantage in the general election in the 11th District, which President Donald Trump would have won by 17 points in 2016, according to calculations by Daily Kos Elections, under the new North Carolina congressional map drawn last year.


rollcall--2020-03-20--Defense industry to carry on in face of coronavirus

The defense industry will receive special treatment as it looks to ride out the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ lobbying push from powerful associations that represent the nation 's defense contractors .
On Thursday @ @ @ @ @ Security declared workers employed by companies in the defense industrial base to be “ essential @ @ @ @ @ , ” according to guidance issued by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency .
This @ @ @ @ @ million workers in the defense industry to stay on the job , even as local @ @ @ @ @ restrictions and require people to stay home .

The defense industry will receive special treatment as it looks to ride out the economic disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, thanks to a lobbying push from powerful associations that represent the nation's defense contractors.
On Thursday, the Department of Homeland Security declared workers employed by companies in the defense industrial base to be “essential to continued critical infrastructure viability,” according to guidance issued by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
[Undisclosed delays plague atomic programs, cost billions to fix]
This paves the way for 2.5 million workers in the defense industry to stay on the job, even as local and state governments implement travel restrictions and require people to stay home.


rollcall--2020-03-21--Deal close, negotiators to reconvene Saturday on stimulus

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , earlier had set a midnight target to reach agreement in principle so the legislative drafting could begin .
But it became clear as the night wore on that deadline would n't be hit .
The Senate 's top Democrat earlier had said the bipartisan `` task forces '' were unlikely to meet the midnight deadline .
`` There 's so much to do .
I think tonight is hard , '' said Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. `` There 's still some significant outstanding issues , very significant to our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to . ''
McConnell filed cloture Friday on the underlying legislation , an unrelated tax bill the House passed last year that already became law as part of the fiscal 2020 spending deal .
That measure was to become the vehicle for an amended version of the comprehensive stimulus plan Senate Republicans introduced Thursday night .
The motion would allow for final votes as early as Monday , as long as objections did n't drag out debate .
The earlier bill McConnell unveiled did not have an unemployment insurance component .
Senate Democrats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ weekly benefit , extend the 26-week duration by another 13 weeks , eliminate the current waiting period before claimants can get their checks and more .
Senators said Trump administration officials told them Friday that there were states that could n't handle the changes right now , with jobless claims skyrocketing .
`` My concern about the unemployment part of it is really related to whether the state systems can handle the inflow that 's coming , '' according to Marco Rubio , R-Fla. “ From what I 've heard multiple states have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not built for half the country to be unemployed that quickly or potentially unemployed .
”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., earlier had set a midnight target to reach agreement in principle so the legislative drafting could begin. But it became clear as the night wore on that deadline wouldn't be hit.
The Senate's top Democrat earlier had said the bipartisan "task forces" were unlikely to meet the midnight deadline. "There's so much to do. I think tonight is hard," said Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y. "There's still some significant outstanding issues, very significant to our side, that they haven't agreed to."
McConnell filed cloture Friday on the underlying legislation, an unrelated tax bill the House passed last year that already became law as part of the fiscal 2020 spending deal. That measure was to become the vehicle for an amended version of the comprehensive stimulus plan Senate Republicans introduced Thursday night. The motion would allow for final votes as early as Monday, as long as objections didn't drag out debate.
Unemployment insurance, state aid
The earlier bill McConnell unveiled did not have an unemployment insurance component. Senate Democrats have been pushing to increase the typical weekly benefit, extend the 26-week duration by another 13 weeks, eliminate the current waiting period before claimants can get their checks and more. Senators said Trump administration officials told them Friday that there were states that couldn't handle the changes right now, with jobless claims skyrocketing.
"My concern about the unemployment part of it is really related to whether the state systems can handle the inflow that's coming," according to Marco Rubio, R-Fla. “From what I've heard multiple states have had systemic crashes because they're just not built for half the country to be unemployed that quickly or potentially unemployed.”


rollcall--2020-03-21--Texas primary runoffs postponed until July due to coronavirus

Texas Republican Gov .
Greg Abbott announced Friday he would push back the state ’ s primary runoffs from May 26 until July 14 , joining a growing number of states postponing elections due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The move prolongs primary campaigns in a slew of competitive congressional races , including the Democratic contest to pick a challenger to three-term Republican Sen. John Cornyn .
With no candidate receiving more than 50 percent of the vote in the state ’ s March 3 primary , the top two candidates , Democrats MJ Hegar and Royce West , advanced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ House races in Texas that Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates as a competitive , five feature primary runoffs .
Earlier Friday , the Texas Democratic Party filed a lawsuit seeking to allow all eligible voters to vote by mail-in ballot .
The party argued that because mail-in ballots are already available for disabled voters , others concerned about the virus should also be able to receive them .
“ We must do everything we can to guarantee access to the ballot box for individuals who are practicing social distancing and self-quarantining @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hinojosa .
“ Current law says you can vote-by-mail if you are disabled and we believe COVID-19 puts the health of all of us at risk .
This lawsuit will allow any person who does not want to risk their health or that of their family ’ s during this coronavirus pandemic to vote by mail .
”

Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott announced Friday he would push back the state’s primary runoffs from May 26 until July 14, joining a growing number of states postponing elections due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The move prolongs primary campaigns in a slew of competitive congressional races, including the Democratic contest to pick a challenger to three-term Republican Sen. John Cornyn. With no candidate receiving more than 50 percent of the vote in the state’s March 3 primary, the top two candidates, Democrats MJ Hegar and Royce West, advanced to the runoff.
Of the nine House races in Texas that Inside Elections with Nathan L. Gonzales rates as a competitive, five feature primary runoffs.
Earlier Friday, the Texas Democratic Party filed a lawsuit seeking to allow all eligible voters to vote by mail-in ballot. The party argued that because mail-in ballots are already available for disabled voters, others concerned about the virus should also be able to receive them.
“We must do everything we can to guarantee access to the ballot box for individuals who are practicing social distancing and self-quarantining,” said state party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa. “Current law says you can vote-by-mail if you are disabled and we believe COVID-19 puts the health of all of us at risk. This lawsuit will allow any person who does not want to risk their health or that of their family’s during this coronavirus pandemic to vote by mail.”


rollcall--2020-03-21--Coronavirus aid talks progress as GOP pitches unemployment plan

Senate and White House negotiators reported bipartisan progress on a massive economic aid package to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic @ @ @ @ @ the chief remaining sticking points : Democrats ' insistence on expanded unemployment insurance .
On @ @ @ @ @ , Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. , said he 'd spoken with President @ @ @ @ @ Pelosi , D-Calif. , and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin `` several times '' about the @ @ @ @ @ just had a very good , very detailed phone call '' with Mnuchin , Schumer @ @ @ @ @ making very good progress .
I have every expectation this progress will continue throughout the @ @ @ @ @ , R-Ohio , said members of the Finance Committee working on tax and unemployment provisions @ @ @ @ @ p.m. deadline to get a bipartisan package ready .
`` Try to get all decisions @ @ @ @ @ by 5 , '' he said .

Senate and White House negotiators reported bipartisan progress on a massive economic aid package to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including on one of the chief remaining sticking points: Democrats' insistence on expanded unemployment insurance.
On the Senate floor Saturday morning, Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., said he'd spoken with President Donald Trump, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin "several times" about the evolving package.
[Deal close, negotiators to reconvene Saturday on stimulus]
"I just had a very good, very detailed phone call" with Mnuchin, Schumer said. "We are making very good progress. I have every expectation this progress will continue throughout the day."
Rob Portman, R-Ohio, said members of the Finance Committee working on tax and unemployment provisions have been given a 5 p.m. deadline to get a bipartisan package ready. "Try to get all decisions made and write it out by 5," he said.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Senate GOP preps stimulus text; Democrats say no deal yet

The top four congressional leaders plan to huddle with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin Sunday morning to try to wrap up a massive economic relief package that could approach $ 2 trillion in new fiscal stimulus to help cope with the COVID-19 pandemic .
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , said in a statement late Saturday that the handful of committee chairmen involved in the talks had been instructed to finish up their pieces of the package and send him legislative text `` this evening . ''
He said he wanted to compile the measure for distribution to senators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ review it before Sunday 's 3 p.m. procedural vote related to whether to take up the underlying legislative vehicle .
But Democrats made clear there were still areas of dispute between the parties .
`` There is not yet an agreement , and we still have not seen large parts of the Republican draft , '' said a spokesman for Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. `` We look forward to reviewing their first draft and negotiating a bipartisan compromise . ''
Senate Finance Chairman Charles E. Grassley earlier said negotiators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ points of the talks : a push by Democrats for more generous unemployment insurance benefits .

The top four congressional leaders plan to huddle with Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin Sunday morning to try to wrap up a massive economic relief package that could approach $2 trillion in new fiscal stimulus to help cope with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said in a statement late Saturday that the handful of committee chairmen involved in the talks had been instructed to finish up their pieces of the package and send him legislative text "this evening."
He said he wanted to compile the measure for distribution to senators so they'd have a chance to review it before Sunday's 3 p.m. procedural vote related to whether to take up the underlying legislative vehicle. But Democrats made clear there were still areas of dispute between the parties.
"There is not yet an agreement, and we still have not seen large parts of the Republican draft," said a spokesman for Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y. "We look forward to reviewing their first draft and negotiating a bipartisan compromise."
Senate Finance Chairman Charles E. Grassley earlier said negotiators had resolved one of the biggest sticking points of the talks: a push by Democrats for more generous unemployment insurance benefits.


rollcall--2020-03-21--California Rep. Mark DeSaulnier in critical condition with pneumonia

California Democratic Rep. Mark DeSaulnier is in critical condition after being hospitalized for pneumonia , his office announced Saturday .
@ @ @ @ @ hospital earlier this week due to complications of pneumonia from a rib fracture , which @ @ @ @ @ a run .
His office noted he tested negative for COVID-19 , the disease caused @ @ @ @ @ “ Unfortunately , Congressman DeSaulnier ’ s condition has deteriorated and he is in critical @ @ @ @ @ Marr , DeSaulnier ’ s chief of staff , said in a statement .
“ @ @ @ @ @ they can to care for the Congressman .
Mark ’ s family and staff appreciate @ @ @ @ @ this very difficult time.
” DeSaulnier was first elected to Congress in 2014 .

California Democratic Rep. Mark DeSaulnier is in critical condition after being hospitalized for pneumonia, his office announced Saturday.
DeSaulnier was admitted to the hospital earlier this week due to complications of pneumonia from a rib fracture, which he suffered after falling during a run. His office noted he tested negative for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.
“Unfortunately, Congressman DeSaulnier’s condition has deteriorated and he is in critical condition,” Betsy Arnold Marr, DeSaulnier’s chief of staff, said in a statement. “The doctors are doing everything they can to care for the Congressman. Mark’s family and staff appreciate your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.”
DeSaulnier was first elected to Congress in 2014.
Lindsey McPherson contributed to this report.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Coronavirus stimulus package stalls after Senate motion rejected

The Senate on Sunday rejected the motion to proceed to the COVID-19 economic relief package , 47-47 .
Sixty “ @ @ @ @ @ .
Five senators were not present due to self-quarantine , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell @ @ @ @ @ Paul announced he had tested positive for the coronavirus .
A final deal and text @ @ @ @ @ .
The package is to be considered as an amendment to an unrelated tax bill @ @ @ @ @ year .
Prior to the procedural vote , McConnell had urged colleagues to vote “ @ @ @ @ @ to proceed .
“ We need to signal to the public that we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ done , ” the Kentucky Republican said .

Negotiations on an economic stimulus measure that had hit about $1.8 trillion by Sunday — and probably climbing — were set to continue Monday morning, top Senate and White House officials said late Sunday night.
“I think we’re very close. The teams are going to work through the night. We’re going to regroup the principals in the morning," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said. "We’re going to work very hard to get this done tomorrow.”
White House legislative affairs director Eric Ueland said administration negotiators would be back up at the Capitol by 9 a.m. to continue talks.
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., late Sunday said he'd met with Ueland and Mnuchin six times that day. He said while there are "some serious problems" with the package Senate Republicans circulated late Saturday, he thought a deal could be near.
"We're getting closer and closer and I'm very hopeful … that we could get a bill in the morning," Schumer said.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Democrats want bigger coronavirus appropriation in Senate bill

Senate Republicans have proposed a $ 242 billion appropriations package as part of the massive economic stimulus bill aimed at @ @ @ @ @ the coronavirus pandemic .
Negotiations over that are ongoing , however , as Democrats say @ @ @ @ @ what is needed .
Senate Democratic Whip Richard J. Durbin , D-Ill. , said Sunday @ @ @ @ @ legislation is “ likely to ” get bigger .
A House Democratic aide , not @ @ @ @ @ ongoing negotiations , called the bill “ a Senate Republican wish list , ” adding @ @ @ @ @ to negotiate in good faith on a package that matches the scale of the challenge @ @ @ @ @ , the proposal incorporates some of the priorities sought by Democrats and is five times @ @ @ @ @ 45.8 billion supplemental appropriation the White House Office of Management and Budget requested last week @

Senate Republicans have proposed a $242 billion appropriations package as part of the massive economic stimulus bill aimed at mobilizing federal agencies to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Negotiations over that are ongoing, however, as Democrats say the package falls short of what is needed.
Senate Democratic Whip Richard J. Durbin, D-Ill., said Sunday the appropriations portion of the legislation is “likely to” get bigger.
A House Democratic aide, not authorized to speak publicly about ongoing negotiations, called the bill “a Senate Republican wish list,” adding that Democrats “are continuing to negotiate in good faith on a package that matches the scale of the challenge facing our country.”
Nevertheless, the proposal incorporates some of the priorities sought by Democrats and is five times the size of a $45.8 billion supplemental appropriation the White House Office of Management and Budget requested last week.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Senate delays vote as rifts deepen on coronavirus aid

Deepening rifts over a massive economic stimulus package forced Senate leaders to delay a planned procedural vote by three hours , until 6 p.m. Sunday .
While negotiations continued and hope for a bipartisan deal remained , Democrats were frustrated that Republican leaders were rushing on a measure that they said didn ’ t do enough to help workers and was too generous toward corporate interests .
“ People are very unhappy about what the Republicans have put forward , ” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren , D-Mass .
“ They have not given us details , but the overall view @ @ @ @ @ @ @ slush fund for giant corporations , no help for employees , and no help for the hospitals.
” Republicans insisted they had bipartisan support for a robust relief package ( HR 748 ) offering one-time cash payments to families , loans to small businesses and an expanded social safety net .
“ What we have is a compromise product which contains ideas , contributions and priorities on both sides and which could become law as soon as tomorrow , ” Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , said on the floor .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just about time to take yes for an answer .
”

David Lerman, Jennifer Shutt, and Katherine Tully-McManus

Deepening rifts over a massive economic stimulus package forced Senate leaders to delay a planned procedural vote by three hours, until 6 p.m. Sunday.
While negotiations continued and hope for a bipartisan deal remained, Democrats were frustrated that Republican leaders were rushing on a measure that they said didn’t do enough to help workers and was too generous toward corporate interests.
“People are very unhappy about what the Republicans have put forward,” said Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. “They have not given us details, but the overall view is that they want to create a slush fund for giant corporations, no help for employees, and no help for the hospitals.”
Republicans insisted they had bipartisan support for a robust relief package (HR 748) offering one-time cash payments to families, loans to small businesses and an expanded social safety net.
“What we have is a compromise product which contains ideas, contributions and priorities on both sides and which could become law as soon as tomorrow,” Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said on the floor. “In other words, it’s just about time to take yes for an answer.”


rollcall--2020-03-22--Rand Paul tests positive for coronavirus, under quarantine

Sen. Rand Paul is under quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus but is “ feeling fine , ” @ @ @ @ @ office announced Sunday on Twitter .
The news came shortly before the Senate planned to @ @ @ @ @ an economic stimulus package still being negotiated .
Paul being under quarantine means he ’ @ @ @ @ @ the Senate does not have a mechanism in place for lawmakers to vote remotely .
@ @ @ @ @ had prolonged contact with Paul in recent days , Utah Sens .
Mike Lee and @ @ @ @ @ Sunday that they were going under self-quarantine and would miss votes .
Both said they @ @ @ @ @ of the Capitol ’ s attending physician .
Romney also said he would get tested @ @ @ @ @ Lee said the attending physician said he didn ’ t need to .

Lindsey McPherson and Katherine Tully-McManus

Sen. Rand Paul is under quarantine after testing positive for the new coronavirus but is “feeling fine,” the Kentucky Republican’s office announced Sunday on Twitter.
The news came shortly before the Senate planned to hold a procedural vote on an economic stimulus package still being negotiated.
Paul being under quarantine means he’ll miss the vote since the Senate does not have a mechanism in place for lawmakers to vote remotely.
Two Republicans who’ve had prolonged contact with Paul in recent days, Utah Sens. Mike Lee and Mitt Romney, announced later Sunday that they were going under self-quarantine and would miss votes.
Both said they were self-quarantining on the advice of the Capitol’s attending physician. Romney also said he would get tested for the coronavirus, while Lee said the attending physician said he didn’t need to.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Negotiators struggle to reach coronavirus stimulus deal

Negotiations on a massive financial relief package appeared to hit more roadblocks Sunday , potentially derailing hopes of a speedy resolution to contain the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic .
`` We 're so far apart , '' Speaker Nancy Pelosi , D-Calif. , said after leaving an hourlong meeting at the Capitol with other top congressional leaders and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin .
In another potential setback , Pelosi said the House would offer its own legislative package even as the Senate works to complete its bill .
`` We 'll be introducing our own bill and hopefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discussed on the Senate side , '' she said .
When asked if her comments meant there was not yet any bipartisan or bicameral deal , Pelosi said , `` yes . ''
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. , was somewhat more circumspect as he left the meeting but confirmed a deal would take more time .
`` We 're continuing to talk , '' he said .
`` We want to get to an agreement . ''
Mnuchin , the Trump administration ’ s point man for the talks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier television interview .

Negotiations on a massive financial relief package appeared to hit more roadblocks Sunday, potentially derailing hopes of a speedy resolution to contain the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We're so far apart," Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., said after leaving an hourlong meeting at the Capitol with other top congressional leaders and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. In another potential setback, Pelosi said the House would offer its own legislative package even as the Senate works to complete its bill.
"We'll be introducing our own bill and hopefully it will be compatible with what they discussed on the Senate side," she said. When asked if her comments meant there was not yet any bipartisan or bicameral deal, Pelosi said, "yes."
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., was somewhat more circumspect as he left the meeting but confirmed a deal would take more time. "We're continuing to talk," he said. "We want to get to an agreement."
Mnuchin, the Trump administration’s point man for the talks, offered an optimistic assessment in an earlier television interview.


rollcall--2020-03-22--Remote voting? Rand Paul COVID-19 diagnosis prompts more discussion

Despite congressional leaders ’ position that Congress does not need to consider remote voting in light of the coronavirus pandemic , the diagnosis of Sen. Rand Paul with COVID-19 has kept the topic alive at the highest levels — including at the White House .
President Donald Trump on Sunday endorsed the idea of Congress setting up remote voting procedures “ on a temporary basis ” after Paul , a Kentucky Republican , tested positive for the novel coronavirus .
“ I would certainly be in favor of it , where they could remote from some outside location , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ idea during the daily coronavirus news conference .
“ I was thinking about it today , ” Trump said .
“ You could have a lot of senators and a lot of House members .
… You could have a large number ” who have COVID-19 .
Despite that sentiment , however , Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and his team have brushed off the idea .
On Sunday , as the Senate struggled to coalesce around a third stimulus package to deal with the fallout from the pandemic , McConnell referred to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the four other Republican senators in self-quarantine .

The doors to the chamber were propped open so senators did not have to push them. Many rubbed hand sanitizer on their hands as they entered the chamber to vote.
Trump said there may be constitutional reasons why Congress has to convene in the Capitol, but he would support remote voting during the coronavirus pandemic if it’s feasible.
He mentioned Paul’s diagnosis at the news conference Sunday, along with that of Florida Republican Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, whom he misidentified as José, saying the coronavirus is “getting quite close to home.”
“I hope they’re all going to be fine, but I just want to send our regards … to those two great friends of mine,” he said.
He said he talked to Diaz-Balart on Saturday.


rollcall--2020-03-22--No deal yet on stimulus as stock market teeters on the edge

Negotiations on an economic stimulus measure that had hit about $ 1.8 trillion by Sunday — and probably climbing — @ @ @ @ @ morning , top Senate and White officials said late Sunday night .
“ I think @ @ @ @ @ .
The teams are going to work through the night .
We ’ re going @ @ @ @ @ the morning , '' Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said .
`` We ’ re going @ @ @ @ @ get this done tomorrow.
” White House legislative affairs director Eric Ueland said administration negotiators @ @ @ @ @ the Capitol by 9 a.m. to continue talks .
Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer @ @ @ @ @ said he 'd met with Ueland and Mnuchin six times that day .
He said @ @ @ @ @ serious problems '' with the package Senate Republicans circulated late Saturday , he thought a @ @ @ @ @ `` We 're getting closer and closer and I 'm very hopeful … that we @ @ @ @ @ the morning , '' Schumer said .


rollcall--2020-03-23--Coronavirus Special Report: Evening update, 3/23

The Senate is still trying to get to `` yes '' on a nearly $ 2 trillion stimulus package to @ @ @ @ @ and the economic wreckage the virus has caused .
Meanwhile , nearly 100 million Americans @ @ @ @ @ home as the nation braces for even more fallout from the contagion .
• Five @ @ @ @ @ to the coronavirus stimulus package • The shelves were bare , but this congressman wanted @ @ @ @ @ that inmate transfers may spread coronavirus to communities

The Senate is still trying to get to "yes" on a nearly $2 trillion stimulus package to help combat the coronavirus pandemic and the economic wreckage the virus has caused. Meanwhile, nearly 100 million Americans have been asked to stay home as the nation braces for even more fallout from the contagion.
Show Notes:


rollcall--2020-03-23--Full Capitol Police force not receiving coronavirus tests

The U.S. Capitol Police force is not being tested for exposure to the coronavirus , despite a request from the @ @ @ @ @ of lawmakers and staffers testing positive for the virus that causes COVID-19 .
Union leader @ @ @ @ @ Chief Steven A. Sund on March 20 to express concern he and other officers have @ @ @ @ @ complex testing positive for the novel coronavirus .
Papathanasiou noted that the union was “ @ @ @ @ @ texts , emails , etc ” and that he is “ trying my hardest to @ @ @ @ @ On March 18 , Florida Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart became the first member of Congress to @ @ @ @ @ , with Utah Rep. Ben McAdams later sharing his positive test result .
Sund replied @ @ @ @ @ the issue raised was addressed the previous day in a department bulletin , adding that @ @ @ @ @ “ No USCP officers have been identified to be at high risk and no testing @ @ @ @ @ .

The U.S. Capitol Police force is not being tested for exposure to the coronavirus, despite a request from the union and an increasing number of lawmakers and staffers testing positive for the virus that causes COVID-19.
Union leader Gus Papathanasiou emailed Capitol Police Chief Steven A. Sund on March 20 to express concern he and other officers have about people in the Capitol complex testing positive for the novel coronavirus. Papathanasiou noted that the union was “getting flooded with calls, texts, emails, etc” and that he is “trying my hardest to keep officers at ease.”
On March 18, Florida Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart became the first member of Congress to disclose his COVID-19 virus diagnosis, with Utah Rep. Ben McAdams later sharing his positive test result.
Sund replied via email to Papathanasiou saying the issue raised was addressed the previous day in a department bulletin, adding that testing is not mandated.
“No USCP officers have been identified to be at high risk and no testing required,” Sund said.


rollcall--2020-03-23--House stimulus draft reflects Democrats’ views on airline aid

The House and Senate take fundamentally different approaches to helping airlines reeling from the coronavirus pandemic , and that difference may be a sticking point to an agreement .
At issue is whether to offer airlines cash grants or simply loans to help them navigate the turbulence caused by the pandemic .
An early draft summary of the House bill obtained by CQ Roll Call Monday would provide $ 40 billion in grants to airlines and ground support contractors and up to $ 21 billion in loans to airlines .
By contrast , the legislative vehicle for the Senate bill @ @ @ @ @ @ @ billion in loans and loan guarantees to airlines .
Both bills are subject to change ; provisions of the Senate measure including those affecting airlines are the subject of intense debate between Democrats and Republicans .
The House draft could change before its introduction .
But even before the House bill was formally introduced , House Transportation and Infrastructure ranking Republican Sam Graves , R-Mo.
, and Aviation Subcommittee ranking member Garret Graves , R-La.
, were signalling their disdain , saying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “ has put forward a bill that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do with responding to the COVID-19 crisis and helping the American people .
”

The House and Senate take fundamentally different approaches to helping airlines reeling from the coronavirus pandemic, and that difference may be a sticking point to an agreement.
At issue is whether to offer airlines cash grants or simply loans to help them navigate the turbulence caused by the pandemic.
An early draft summary of the House bill obtained by CQ Roll Call Monday would provide $40 billion in grants to airlines and ground support contractors and up to $21 billion in loans to airlines.
By contrast, the legislative vehicle for the Senate bill (HR 748) provided $58 billion in loans and loan guarantees to airlines. Both bills are subject to change; provisions of the Senate measure including those affecting airlines are the subject of intense debate between Democrats and Republicans. The House draft could change before its introduction.
But even before the House bill was formally introduced, House Transportation and Infrastructure ranking Republican Sam Graves, R-Mo., and Aviation Subcommittee ranking member Garret Graves, R-La., were signalling their disdain, saying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi “has put forward a bill that is full of provisions that have nothing to do with responding to the COVID-19 crisis and helping the American people.”


rollcall--2020-03-23--Fears grow that inmate transfers may spread coronavirus to communities

Continued inmate transfers by the Federal Bureau of Prisons could expose correctional officers and the communities where they live to @ @ @ @ @ and lawmakers warn .
Those concerns come a week after the bureau said that transfers @ @ @ @ @ I think the Bureau of Prisons , by transferring these incarcerated individuals from one place @ @ @ @ @ goes against everything we ’ ve been doing to flatten the curve , ” Republican @ @ @ @ @ said Monday .
Brandy Moore , national secretary-treasurer for the corrections officers ’ union , @ @ @ @ @ transfers into and between facilities are happening .

Continued inmate transfers by the Federal Bureau of Prisons could expose correctional officers and the communities where they live to the coronavirus, prison staff and lawmakers warn.
Those concerns come a week after the bureau said that transfers would be suspended.
“I think the Bureau of Prisons, by transferring these incarcerated individuals from one place to another, it certainly goes against everything we’ve been doing to flatten the curve,” Republican Rep. Fred Keller of Pennsylvania said Monday.
Brandy Moore, national secretary-treasurer for the corrections officers’ union, said Monday that frequent inmate transfers into and between facilities are happening.


rollcall--2020-03-23--Senate appropriators might switch to virtual hearings

“ We might not do the hearings .
We ’ ll have to decide , ultimately , if we need @ @ @ @ @ ” Shelby said .
“ We don ’ t have to do the hearings.
” @ @ @ @ @ forms of communication to talk with the Trump administration about its budget request for fiscal @ @ @ @ @ to start Oct. 1 .
Such discussions likely wouldn ’ t be similar to the @ @ @ @ @ panel typically holds .
Those hearings allow federal agencies to defend any proposed funding increases @ @ @ @ @ to question the executive branch about how it spent money approved during the previous fiscal @ @ @ @ @ use the opportunity to defend their parochial interests and put the executive branch on notice @ @ @ @ @ that might negatively affect their constituents .
The Senate Appropriations Committee has held several hearings @ @ @ @ @ far into the process when the Senate turned its attention to legislation meant to reduce @ @ @ @ @ crisis brought on by the novel coronavirus .

“We might not do the hearings. We’ll have to decide, ultimately, if we need to do the hearings,” Shelby said. “We don’t have to do the hearings.”
The committee could use other forms of communication to talk with the Trump administration about its budget request for fiscal 2021, which is slated to start Oct. 1. Such discussions likely wouldn’t be similar to the public, broadcast hearings the panel typically holds. Those hearings allow federal agencies to defend any proposed funding increases and give lawmakers an opportunity to question the executive branch about how it spent money approved during the previous fiscal year.
Lawmakers also regularly use the opportunity to defend their parochial interests and put the executive branch on notice about any changes in policy that might negatively affect their constituents.
The Senate Appropriations Committee has held several hearings already but was not particularly far into the process when the Senate turned its attention to legislation meant to reduce the global health and economic crisis brought on by the novel coronavirus.
[Redefining district work: House members opt to telework during coronavirus pandemic]


rollcall--2020-03-23--Senate stimulus bill snags on trade aid, food stamps

The Senate economic stimulus bill would allow the Agriculture Department to temporarily add $ 20 billion to a fund the @ @ @ @ @ payments to farmers and ranchers adversely affected by retaliatory tariffs imposed by U.S. trading partners @ @ @ @ @ give farmers more time to repay marketing assistance loans .
But Democrats are balking at @ @ @ @ @ from at least one aide that Democrats would be willing to make concessions on both @ @ @ @ @ for food stamps .
A House Democratic aide indicated the two Commodity Credit Corporation provisions @ @ @ @ @ food stamps .
“ This comes down to the fundamental bargain in American food policy @ @ @ @ @ , speaking on background because negotiations are continuing .
“ If we are going to @ @ @ @ @ help hungry people.
” To reach agreement , the aide said , “ Senate Republicans @ @ @ @ @ changes that ensure adequate [ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program ] benefits flow to people affected @ @ @ @ @

The Senate economic stimulus bill would allow the Agriculture Department to temporarily add $20 billion to a fund the Trump administration used to make payments to farmers and ranchers adversely affected by retaliatory tariffs imposed by U.S. trading partners.
The bill also would give farmers more time to repay marketing assistance loans.
But Democrats are balking at the provisions, amid indications from at least one aide that Democrats would be willing to make concessions on both in exchange for more money for food stamps.
A House Democratic aide indicated the two Commodity Credit Corporation provisions could be traded for higher food stamps.
“This comes down to the fundamental bargain in American food policy,” the aide said, speaking on background because negotiations are continuing. “If we are going to help farmers, we must help hungry people.” To reach agreement, the aide said, “Senate Republicans will have to agree to changes that ensure adequate [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program] benefits flow to people affected by this pandemic.”


rollcall--2020-03-23--The shelves were bare, but this congressman wanted lasagna noodles

He wanted lasagna noodles , he couldn ’ t find lasagna noodles , he offered toilet paper in exchange for @ @ @ @ @ he told Democrats to stay away from both his guns and his lasagna noodles .
@ @ @ @ @ are going for Rep. Ken Buck so far , how are they going for you @ @ @ @ @ that Lysol wipes and hand sanitizer aren ’ t the only items in short supply @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I promised my daughter lasagna for her birthday , ” the congressman wrote @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve got everything but the lasagna noodles and the stores are all sold @ @ @

He wanted lasagna noodles, he couldn’t find lasagna noodles, he offered toilet paper in exchange for lasagna noodles, and then he told Democrats to stay away from both his guns and his lasagna noodles.
That’s how things are going for Rep. Ken Buck so far, how are they going for you?
The Colorado Republican discovered that Lysol wipes and hand sanitizer aren’t the only items in short supply at grocery stores right now.
“I promised my daughter lasagna for her birthday,” the congressman wrote Sunday on Instagram. “I’ve got everything but the lasagna noodles and the stores are all sold out.”


rollcall--2020-03-23--Nursing home may face penalty as CMS gives industry flexibility

The Trump administration on Monday announced the results of its investigation of a Washington nursing home seen as ground zero of the United States ' COVID-19 crisis , while previewing upcoming pandemic-related policy changes .
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced that the Kirkland , Wash.-based nursing home — Life Care Center of Kirkland — would be classified as in immediate jeopardy , meaning it could be penalized for putting the health and safety of its residents in immediate danger .
Life Care Center of Kirkland was ordered March 18 to make improvements within 23 days after almost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for COVID-19 and at least 29 residents have died from the virus so far .
When the outbreak started in February , the facility had 120 residents .
CMS also announced it would conduct an unannounced check to verify the facility ’ s progress .
If the nursing home is unable to make the required changes , the facility will be penalized by becoming ineligible for federal health program payments .
“ It ’ s a situation in which patients are in immediate danger ; specifically , the facility failed to identify and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Administrator Seema Verma in a Monday call with reporters .
“ They failed to notify the state health department and the state about sick residents .
And they failed to have a backup plan for when their staff doctor became sick .
”

The Trump administration on Monday announced the results of its investigation of a Washington nursing home seen as ground zero of the United States' COVID-19 crisis, while previewing upcoming pandemic-related policy changes.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced that the Kirkland, Wash.-based nursing home — Life Care Center of Kirkland — would be classified as in immediate jeopardy, meaning it could be penalized for putting the health and safety of its residents in immediate danger.
Life Care Center of Kirkland was ordered March 18 to make improvements within 23 days after almost a third of its workers tested positive for COVID-19 and at least 29 residents have died from the virus so far. When the outbreak started in February, the facility had 120 residents.
CMS also announced it would conduct an unannounced check to verify the facility’s progress. If the nursing home is unable to make the required changes, the facility will be penalized by becoming ineligible for federal health program payments.
“It’s a situation in which patients are in immediate danger; specifically, the facility failed to identify and manage sick residents,” said CMS Administrator Seema Verma in a Monday call with reporters. “They failed to notify the state health department and the state about sick residents. And they failed to have a backup plan for when their staff doctor became sick.”


rollcall--2020-03-23--Rhode Island governor postpones primary until June 2

Add another state to the growing list of postponed primary elections : Rhode Island .
Gov .
Gina Raimondo , a Democrat , said Monday she would sign an executive order to move the state 's presidential primary from April 28 to June 2 because of the coronavirus pandemic .
`` Last week , the Board of Elections requested that the presidential primary election be postponed ... and that the election take place primarily by mail ballot , '' she said on Twitter Monday .
`` I am following the advice . ''
Democrats in Alaska , too , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scheduled for April 4 and instead adopt an extensive vote-by-mail primary process .
Ballots must now be received in Anchorage no later than April 10 to be counted , party officials said .
`` The Alaska Democratic Party has already mailed ballots to over 71,000 registered Democrats across the state , seven times the number of people that participated in the 2016 caucuses , '' said party 's executive director , Lindsay Kavanaugh .
`` We want to continue to allow for maximum participation in this historic primary while respecting the health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ”

Add another state to the growing list of postponed primary elections: Rhode Island.
Gov. Gina Raimondo, a Democrat, said Monday she would sign an executive order to move the state's presidential primary from April 28 to June 2 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
"Last week, the Board of Elections requested that the presidential primary election be postponed ... and that the election take place primarily by mail ballot," she said on Twitter Monday. "I am following the advice."
Democrats in Alaska, too, said Monday they would cancel in-person voting originally scheduled for April 4 and instead adopt an extensive vote-by-mail primary process. Ballots must now be received in Anchorage no later than April 10 to be counted, party officials said.
"The Alaska Democratic Party has already mailed ballots to over 71,000 registered Democrats across the state, seven times the number of people that participated in the 2016 caucuses," said party's executive director, Lindsay Kavanaugh. "We want to continue to allow for maximum participation in this historic primary while respecting the health and safety of our voters and volunteers.”


rollcall--2020-03-23--Schumer calls procedural votes ‘irrelevant’ as coronavirus aid bill negotiations continue

Sen. Charles E. Schumer , D-N.Y. , said the procedural votes on the coronavirus relief bill , which took place @ @ @ @ @ were “ irrelevant ” because negotiations between congressional leaders were ongoing .
Schumer said Democrats @ @ @ @ @ speed up consideration ” of a deal once one is reached between the two parties @ @ @ @ @ Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell , R-Ky. , had earlier cited the urgent nature of @ @ @ @ @ for action on the procedural vote .
[ Read more : No deal yet on @ @ @ @ @ on the edge ]

Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., said the procedural votes on the coronavirus relief bill, which took place Monday at 1:30 p.m., were “irrelevant” because negotiations between congressional leaders were ongoing.
Schumer said Democrats would be willing to “speed up consideration” of a deal once one is reached between the two parties. His comments came after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., had earlier cited the urgent nature of the crisis as an impetus for action on the procedural vote.
[Read more: No deal yet on stimulus as stock market teeters on the edge]


rollcall--2020-03-24--Fintech firms say new tech could speed recovery from COVID-19

Financial technology companies are working to improve behind-the-scenes market functions , such as exchanging securities and making lending decisions , @ @ @ @ @ technologies could help markets recover faster than they did in past financial crises .
New @ @ @ @ @ month became the first firm to use blockchain technology to settle U.S. stock trades , @ @ @ @ @ are exchanged for cash after two parties agree to a trade .
The settlement process @ @ @ @ @ sounds for big firms , where large amounts are being moved continuously .
And Fundbox @ @ @ @ @ San Francisco , now uses big data to quickly evaluate potential small-business borrowers , saying @ @ @ @ @ decision within about three minutes , getting money to those who need it in a @ @ @ @ @ a service that some described as PayPal for business credit .
The companies say these @ @ @ @ @ crucial for helping financial markets in the U.S. and the world recover from the effects @ @ @ @ @

Financial technology companies are working to improve behind-the-scenes market functions, such as exchanging securities and making lending decisions, saying the use of new technologies could help markets recover faster than they did in past financial crises.
New York-based Paxos Settlement Service last month became the first firm to use blockchain technology to settle U.S. stock trades, the process by which securities are exchanged for cash after two parties agree to a trade. The settlement process is more complicated than it sounds for big firms, where large amounts are being moved continuously.
And Fundbox, a tech firm in San Francisco, now uses big data to quickly evaluate potential small-business borrowers, saying it can make a lending decision within about three minutes, getting money to those who need it in a crisis. It recently launched a service that some described as PayPal for business credit.
The companies say these types of innovations will be crucial for helping financial markets in the U.S. and the world recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.


rollcall--2020-03-24--Telehealth visits surge along with coronavirus cases

The coronavirus pandemic is prompting a surge in telemedicine use , and advocates hope recent emergency expansions will mark a turning point in the movement toward virtual care .
As the world continues the new “ social distancing ” protocol , hospitals are working to reduce in-person contact to slow new infections and conserve resources for the critically ill .
The pandemic is triggering a surge in telehealth adoption as U.S. doctors connect to patients virtually , with both established platforms and start-ups reporting astronomic increases in volume .
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services temporarily relaxed restrictions on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calling for additional clarity on state licensing provisions for clinicians , as well as technical limits around modalities like virtual chats .
Major telehealth providers are experiencing a coronavirus surge in volume in addition to the seasonal increase for cold and flu visits .
MDLIVE said urgent care visits doubled in Washington state , one area hit hardest by the outbreak .
American Well , the producer of the Amwell app that has struggled with the influx in certain areas , said usage has increased 158 percent nationwide and 650 percent in Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Peter Antall said the company is speeding the installation of new servers and routers to handle the “ unprecedented ” circumstances facing the health care industry .

The coronavirus pandemic is prompting a surge in telemedicine use, and advocates hope recent emergency expansions will mark a turning point in the movement toward virtual care.
As the world continues the new “social distancing” protocol, hospitals are working to reduce in-person contact to slow new infections and conserve resources for the critically ill. The pandemic is triggering a surge in telehealth adoption as U.S. doctors connect to patients virtually, with both established platforms and start-ups reporting astronomical increases in volume.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services temporarily relaxed restrictions on various audio-visual technologies, but providers are calling for additional clarity on state licensing provisions for clinicians, as well as technical limits around modalities like virtual chats.
Major telehealth providers are experiencing a coronavirus surge in volume in addition to the seasonal increase for cold and flu visits. MDLIVE said urgent care visits doubled in Washington state, one of the areas hit hardest by the outbreak. American Well, the producer of the Amwell app that has struggled with the influx in certain areas, said usage has increased 158 percent nationwide and 650 percent in Washington state.
American Well Chief Medical Officer Peter Antall said the company is speeding the installation of new servers and routers to handle the “unprecedented” circumstances facing the health care industry.