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edhopper

(33,662 posts)
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:37 AM Jul 2020

A second stimulus check is useless

Last edited Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:28 AM - Edit history (1)

putting money in the pockets of people, with no where to spend it does nothing.And it will remain this way until we get a vaccine.
It is a vast waste of resources and an obvious election ploy.

Instead, we must help people who cannot work now and small business that remain closed or will have minimal business until the vaccine arrives.

Okay, I will try to explain this again, since most completely missed the point.
There are many Americans who are hurting right now because of COVID. They have lost their jobs or the businesses they work for are closed for now. They need help. As do the small business that will not recover until there is a vaccine.
We need to target the money to those people. Not give it to everyone, which would include the majority of Americans who are still working.
The stimulus check is the GOP idea to stimulate the economy. That is fruitless, since the economy is in trouble, not for lack of money, but because businesses need to be closed down due to COVID. So the $1200 in everyone's pocket will not be spent to syimulate the economy.
Instead that money showed go to the unemployed and underemployed and to keep businesses alive until they can fully reopen.

If you are still making $50,000 or $100,000 a year, you do not need this check and it is just another GOP deficit buster.

91 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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A second stimulus check is useless (Original Post) edhopper Jul 2020 OP
Creditors, utilities, landlords, insurance companies, etc. Nature Man Jul 2020 #1
Which is why I said edhopper Jul 2020 #2
Those of us who were laid off need it MoonlitKnight Jul 2020 #11
Yup Johnny2X2X Jul 2020 #12
Give it to someone who needs it Nature Man Jul 2020 #14
Do you understand edhopper Jul 2020 #21
Yes MoonlitKnight Jul 2020 #60
Agree that edhopper Jul 2020 #61
There are probably people who work (usually hard) and are still poor Nature Man Jul 2020 #13
That is a larger income inequity problem that needfs to addressed edhopper Jul 2020 #25
they piss away more Nature Man Jul 2020 #27
Those who are still working need this money because they need to be prepared in case totodeinhere Jul 2020 #84
Chump change. peacefreak2.0 Jul 2020 #3
Useless? PTWB Jul 2020 #4
I said help those who lost income edhopper Jul 2020 #26
Which businesses are closed? PTWB Jul 2020 #38
Most restaurants edhopper Jul 2020 #40
They're not closed here. PTWB Jul 2020 #52
New York City edhopper Jul 2020 #62
So because some restaurants are closed in NYC... PTWB Jul 2020 #64
Aren't the restaurants open for take out or delivery? EllieBC Jul 2020 #81
But that's just it -- most small businesses Codeine Jul 2020 #54
I agree with you mostly except about your sound system. totodeinhere Jul 2020 #85
I love a good 2 channel system for music listening. PTWB Jul 2020 #87
A stimulus check won't entirely solve the problem, however Americans will be able to buy food dlk Jul 2020 #5
We also need to make sure that children who were getting school lunches and breakfasts totodeinhere Jul 2020 #86
If it staves off hunger or keeps one housed I'm all for it MaryMagdaline Jul 2020 #6
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #29
We make ours turn into political contributions beachbumbob Jul 2020 #7
Not really. I guarantee that I will spend it MineralMan Jul 2020 #8
Apparently, you don't owe back rent and remain fully employed?... NeoGreen Jul 2020 #9
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #28
For us, it will be for food. NurseJackie Jul 2020 #10
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #30
I'm guessing most people wouldn't have any trouble finding someplace to spend it gollygee Jul 2020 #15
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #31
Nowhere to spend it? Codeine Jul 2020 #16
Exactly. You can also order restaurant delivery to your home if you so desire. LisaL Jul 2020 #18
How does giving money to Amazon edhopper Jul 2020 #32
Not just Amazon. Codeine Jul 2020 #41
Small businesses have online stores, do curbside pickup JI7 Jul 2020 #75
Nowhere to spend? LisaL Jul 2020 #17
No where to spend it? Ohiogal Jul 2020 #19
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #33
You're predicating your argument Codeine Jul 2020 #45
Anyone who can't use it, please send to me...guarantee to find lots of places to spend it. jmg257 Jul 2020 #20
"no where to spend it?" You can't be serious. lagomorph777 Jul 2020 #22
Read my OP again. edhopper Jul 2020 #34
I bought a very badly needed new laptop with my last stimulus check. Initech Jul 2020 #23
This message was self-deleted by its author Mosby Jul 2020 #57
We are in our 70's and raising two teen boys. One is starting college. Believe me, we can use it and OregonBlue Jul 2020 #24
What you argue about is (Read my OP) be like.... Boxerfan Jul 2020 #35
If you are talking about edhopper Jul 2020 #36
I see you have edited your OP. MineralMan Jul 2020 #37
I've actually read they won't be lowering the income requirements this time sweetloukillbot Jul 2020 #43
Speak for yourself---you must be well off. panader0 Jul 2020 #39
I can certainly use another stimulus check sweetloukillbot Jul 2020 #42
I know I do not need a check RhodeIslandOne Jul 2020 #44
Lol. Ed, I got your point as soon as I saw your name as author. Hortensis Jul 2020 #46
Are you saying I am overly pessimistic? edhopper Jul 2020 #47
Yes. But you have a sense of humor, so you're probably sane. planetc Jul 2020 #48
Would you take out more edhopper Jul 2020 #49
They already gave me $1200, because I'm retired and my income falls below their level. planetc Jul 2020 #65
I can definitely use it immediately. xmas74 Jul 2020 #50
The $1200 goes right back into the economy. leftyladyfrommo Jul 2020 #51
This message was self-deleted by its author Mosby Jul 2020 #56
Not if the businesses that need it edhopper Jul 2020 #72
Walk a mile in someone else's shoes that are hurting for money. shockey80 Jul 2020 #53
Shoes should never be hurting for money. Codeine Jul 2020 #55
And they should be helped edhopper Jul 2020 #70
I'll take it if you don't want it Polybius Jul 2020 #58
It's not useless, I need it to repair my hot tub Polybius Jul 2020 #59
Either this is a parody or you really need to self delete! nt USALiberal Jul 2020 #63
Nope edhopper Jul 2020 #67
LOL, 2 Recs should tell you something! nt USALiberal Jul 2020 #73
Here is the problem I see. I would not suggest self delete, but editing yes. Caliman73 Jul 2020 #77
They just need to extend the CARES package until the pandemic subsides. peacebuzzard Jul 2020 #66
Exactly edhopper Jul 2020 #68
people with enough money say things like this bigtree Jul 2020 #69
People with enough money should say edhopper Jul 2020 #71
I have enough money, and I freely admit that I'll be happy to take another $1200. Dial H For Hero Jul 2020 #76
That looks like a great trip! Luciferous Jul 2020 #89
Well, when they SPEND IT it does go to people and businesses! Get it?????????? USALiberal Jul 2020 #78
it's stimulus bigtree Jul 2020 #79
The hard part is determining how much is enough money. totodeinhere Jul 2020 #88
I am a small business owner and stimulus checks will help a lot more than JI7 Jul 2020 #74
We spent our first check on a new hot water heater and some other home improvements. Luciferous Jul 2020 #80
We also made an effort to spend the money "locally" Steelrolled Jul 2020 #83
Yeah, our money went to a local HVAC company and a plumber. I'm sure they appreciated the business, Luciferous Jul 2020 #90
Not "useless," but pretty damn close to it. GoCubsGo Jul 2020 #82
The cap for the new $1200 is $40k in income per year. n/t KWR65 Jul 2020 #91

Nature Man

(869 posts)
1. Creditors, utilities, landlords, insurance companies, etc.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:39 AM
Jul 2020

still want their money?

$1200 doesn't go very far.

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
2. Which is why I said
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:43 AM
Jul 2020

those who lost their jobs or are not working because their employers are closed need to be help.
Those of us still working or still getting income don't need this money.

MoonlitKnight

(1,584 posts)
11. Those of us who were laid off need it
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:51 AM
Jul 2020

Unemployment wasn’t enough. Then you go back to work and have to wait weeks for that first paycheck.

Johnny2X2X

(19,271 posts)
12. Yup
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:57 AM
Jul 2020

I do not need another check. The cutoff for the check should be much lower and the unemployed should get a check and extended UE with the extra $600.

So my wife and I, make low 6 figures, will get $4800 over the course of 5 months or so, we don't need it. All the while there are people being evicted and losing their homes and struggling to feed their families.

Our $4800 will pay some debt and we might do a small home improvement, good for the economy sure, but we aren't struggling yet.

We're blowing our wad too soon as a country. After the election there will be no will to help at all and that's when people will really need it.

MoonlitKnight

(1,584 posts)
60. Yes
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 01:44 PM
Jul 2020

And I understand what you re-wrote.

Targeted relief under this administration is nearly impossible. Add to it the daily changes in impact upon the populace makes it further unfair and less likely to help those in need.

The best solution is continuous payments directly to people. Some will get a boost they do not need. The alternative is many not getting assistance that they desperately need immediately.

Other considerations no matter how well reasoned or intentioned fall behind the need for expediency. It is an unfortunate impact of the Republican Senators and Donald Trump.

Nature Man

(869 posts)
13. There are probably people who work (usually hard) and are still poor
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:57 AM
Jul 2020

Would they scoff at $1200?

Would it be safe to assume that there are lots of jobs that don't pay well? That you can work and still struggle?

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
25. That is a larger income inequity problem that needfs to addressed
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:18 AM
Jul 2020

but using resources now, that won't help, will only hurt chances of addressing it later.

Nature Man

(869 posts)
27. they piss away more
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:24 AM
Jul 2020

giving more money to the already wealthy.

"Addressing it later?"

Income inequality is a feature, not a bug.

totodeinhere

(13,059 posts)
84. Those who are still working need this money because they need to be prepared in case
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:30 PM
Jul 2020

they either lose their jobs as well as the economy continues to sink, or they might get the virus and may not be able to work so having that $1200 cushion should help a little bit. Not every employer provides good sick pay benefits. But I agree with you that we need to do those other things such as helping small businesses in addition to the stimulus checks.

 

PTWB

(4,131 posts)
4. Useless?
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:43 AM
Jul 2020

I bet many families struggling to pay rent and put food on the table will disagree with you.

I find it odd that you claim there is nowhere to spend the stimulus money and yet you’re posting this on the Internet. Why, just this morning I spent some money online on a hobby.

I’ll likely put some of the next stimulus money toward more online purchases - I’ve been considering upgrading my home theater to a 5.2.4 Atmos system. I may build another CNC machine.

The money is far from useless.

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
26. I said help those who lost income
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:19 AM
Jul 2020

not give money to everyone. Including those who don't need it and can't spend it now because businesses are closed.

 

PTWB

(4,131 posts)
38. Which businesses are closed?
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:51 AM
Jul 2020

Not a single business I shop at - locally or online - is closed. Some have reduced store hours, most do not.

 

PTWB

(4,131 posts)
52. They're not closed here.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:51 AM
Jul 2020

Some have limited hours and capacity but they’re all open in some way, shape or form.


Where are you that “most” restaurants, theaters and gyms are closed? Further, why do you think that has anything to do with stimulus money?

 

PTWB

(4,131 posts)
64. So because some restaurants are closed in NYC...
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:07 PM
Jul 2020

You think folks can’t spend stimulus money?

EllieBC

(3,052 posts)
81. Aren't the restaurants open for take out or delivery?
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:18 PM
Jul 2020

Also many shops offer curbside or delivery. There’s plenty to spend money on.

 

Codeine

(25,586 posts)
54. But that's just it -- most small businesses
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:54 AM
Jul 2020

are still operating at some capacity, at least the sorts of businesses that are consumer-facing. Gyms and theaters are closed, yes, but most restaurants are trying to get by with take-out and delivery. Small shops are letting in fewer people or filling orders via phone and bringing it to the front door or curb.

All of these businesses would benefit from local families having a few extra dollars that they could comfortably spend on a dinner dropped by a gig worker (who also benefits from having a delivery run) or some games to keep bored kids in lockdown entertained or some art supplies to keep the creative minds flowing.

I get your point, but your argument is built on a specious foundation.

totodeinhere

(13,059 posts)
85. I agree with you mostly except about your sound system.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:37 PM
Jul 2020

I am a two-channel kind of guy. But I have some good speakers so it still sounds fantastic IMO.

dlk

(11,600 posts)
5. A stimulus check won't entirely solve the problem, however Americans will be able to buy food
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:45 AM
Jul 2020

Too many children in America go to bed hungry. It’s a national disgrace.

totodeinhere

(13,059 posts)
86. We also need to make sure that children who were getting school lunches and breakfasts
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:42 PM
Jul 2020

at school will be able to continue to get fed. In some places they can but not everywhere. We are lucky here. The local school district has set up a drive through facility where you can get a hot breakfast to go and a sack lunch if you were on their school lunch program.

MineralMan

(146,351 posts)
8. Not really. I guarantee that I will spend it
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:48 AM
Jul 2020

if I get it. We need to do both: Provide stimulus money and extend the additional UI payments.

Since the income my wife and I have is far under $70K, I expect that the stimulus payments will come to our house. They will get spent, I guarantee. And they'll get spent in a way that helps encourage small businesses to retain their staff and hire new employees.

NeoGreen

(4,031 posts)
9. Apparently, you don't owe back rent and remain fully employed?...
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:51 AM
Jul 2020

and don't have to buy groceries and provide 3 meals a day for your kids/dependents who are home all day and aren't attending camp or going to the senior activity center or getting meals elswhere...what am I missing?

How is a 'stimulus check' sent to individuals a bad thing?

NurseJackie

(42,862 posts)
10. For us, it will be for food.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:51 AM
Jul 2020
with no where to spend it does nothing
For us, it will be for food.

It won't help everyone, but it will be useful for some. I do not believe this "helps" Trump in any way (except among those who were going to vote for him anyway).

If anything it's a reminder of how bad things are.

gollygee

(22,336 posts)
15. I'm guessing most people wouldn't have any trouble finding someplace to spend it
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 09:58 AM
Jul 2020

and in fact it would really be already spent before they got it, because they have bills.

 

Codeine

(25,586 posts)
16. Nowhere to spend it?
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:00 AM
Jul 2020

We can buy almost literally anything we need online and get it within 48 hours. And even those of us still working have seen our hours reduced or our sales commissions decreased. I’m glad you don’t need it, but many more do.

LisaL

(44,982 posts)
18. Exactly. You can also order restaurant delivery to your home if you so desire.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:01 AM
Jul 2020

Spending it ain't going to be a problem.

 

Codeine

(25,586 posts)
41. Not just Amazon.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:05 AM
Jul 2020

I can get delivery from all my local grocery stores, curbside drop-off for loads of small businesses (just did this with some art and hobby supplies and several boardgames in the last week), and all of our area restaurants are delivering via services like Grubhub. I do use Amazon, but I try to use a local option if available.

 

Codeine

(25,586 posts)
45. You're predicating your argument
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:15 AM
Jul 2020

on the false premise that local businesses are shut down. Many (most?) businesses in our area have opened in some capacity with delivery options or mask requirements, limited customer counts, and social distancing.

I’m still working, but my income has been impacted by decreased sales commissions (largely due to supply issues.) I can still use the stimulus money, and even if I didn’t “need” it spending it is a net economic benefit for everyone.

I know the $60 I spent on dinner last night was appreciated by the hole-in-wall Indian place letting one person at a time in to place an order or pick up a completed order.

jmg257

(11,996 posts)
20. Anyone who can't use it, please send to me...guarantee to find lots of places to spend it.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:12 AM
Jul 2020

Grocery stores, beverage stores, clothes, i.e. CC, mortgage, lease, etc.

Since I likely won't get this one either, even though furloughed, its appreciated.

Thanks!

lagomorph777

(30,613 posts)
22. "no where to spend it?" You can't be serious.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:17 AM
Jul 2020

Tens of millions unemployed, facing eviction, waiting in long lines at food banks. For shame.

Initech

(100,143 posts)
23. I bought a very badly needed new laptop with my last stimulus check.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:17 AM
Jul 2020

So the checks can be used for some things.

Response to Initech (Reply #23)

OregonBlue

(7,755 posts)
24. We are in our 70's and raising two teen boys. One is starting college. Believe me, we can use it and
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:17 AM
Jul 2020

will spend it as soon as it arrives.

Boxerfan

(2,533 posts)
35. What you argue about is (Read my OP) be like....
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:34 AM
Jul 2020

Arguing over the acorns left on the forest floor while the tree is being cut down.


The amount citizens are getting that will go right back into the economy is miniscule compared to what they gave away to corporations , churches, foriegn operations and lets forget about the 1st family grifty McGrifters grabbing hand over fist damn the emoluments clause.


At least the stimulus will help many in need. Like my family.

MineralMan

(146,351 posts)
37. I see you have edited your OP.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:37 AM
Jul 2020

Sadly, you are still missing the point about the stimulus money. They are going to lower the limit on income this time. Millions of people work at jobs that do not pay well enough to make life easy. I guarantee that all of those people will put that stimulus money into circulation as soon as it arrives. That will make it possible for some businesses to hire more people, which is the entire point behind a stimulus payment.

Those who are unemployed will, no doubt, get some relief as well. How much is uncertain right now, but it is not a zero sum game.

You tried to modify what you originally said, but you are still missing the point. It is not one or the other. Both are needed. while you might not need a stimulus check, millions of working Americans do need it, and will spend it immediately, stimulating the economy and increasing employment numbers.

Your view is too simplistic, I think.

sweetloukillbot

(11,151 posts)
43. I've actually read they won't be lowering the income requirements this time
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:07 AM
Jul 2020

They talked about it last week, but all the commentary I've seen the past few days are that it's the same as the last round.

panader0

(25,816 posts)
39. Speak for yourself---you must be well off.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 10:56 AM
Jul 2020

I live on $856 bucks a month SS. I spent the last $1200 on land taxes and a new hot water heater.
Folks like you, who must be well off, have no clue how poor people live, how hard it is to make ends meet.

sweetloukillbot

(11,151 posts)
42. I can certainly use another stimulus check
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:06 AM
Jul 2020

Do I think that unemployment benefits should also get priority? Absolutely.

I also suspect that paying a second stimulus is a way for Republicans to show they're paying money out without paying additional unemployment, which would doubtless be more expensive.

But to say that those of us who are firmly middle class and still employed can't use a second stimulus check, or that we don't have the means or opportunity to spend it, is just wrong.

 

RhodeIslandOne

(5,042 posts)
44. I know I do not need a check
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:11 AM
Jul 2020

I have not lost hours. I don't need it right now. Give it to those who lost their job or business over this. Of course I have co-workers who are Trump supporters that want another one while bashing those unemployed getting extra money in the same breath.

Hortensis

(58,785 posts)
46. Lol. Ed, I got your point as soon as I saw your name as author.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:15 AM
Jul 2020

The glass is empty.

I opened, though, out of mild curiosity about responses to the claim that stimulus checks issued to hundreds of millions of working people were useless. I don't think they're a fix that would help, but you might trying thinking about some anyway. Seems like always seeing the glass as empty, or broken on the floor?, would be really hard on anyone.

planetc

(7,854 posts)
48. Yes. But you have a sense of humor, so you're probably sane.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:33 AM
Jul 2020

If they send me more money, I'll donate to my local food bank again. I enjoy feeling that our president wouldn't approve of this expenditure. Now excuse me while I pick up some take out lunch from one of the small restaurants I'm trying to keep in business.

planetc

(7,854 posts)
65. They already gave me $1200, because I'm retired and my income falls below their level.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:17 PM
Jul 2020

So, if they send me another $1200, I have several candidates in mind for the money, since my living expenses are budgeted out until the end of the year. This is not so for the small businesses in my village & town And I used to take myself out to lunch several times a week, and now I do the same, except I eat in. I do tip more now, because who knows what awful rents my restaurants are paying, and for sure the wait staff must have been hurting. If I were Mitch McConnell, this country would be a whole different ballgame.

xmas74

(29,677 posts)
50. I can definitely use it immediately.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:42 AM
Jul 2020

There is a tire sensor on my car that needs fixed.

I do wish it was available for dependents 17 and over or for college students. With funding slashed to higher ed my daughter lost one of her scholarships. $1200 might pay for one class so she doesn't need to look at as much in student loans.

leftyladyfrommo

(18,874 posts)
51. The $1200 goes right back into the economy.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 11:42 AM
Jul 2020

Better than 2 billion for that stupid wall.

Or billions to fraudulent corporations.

Response to leftyladyfrommo (Reply #51)

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
72. Not if the businesses that need it
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:52 PM
Jul 2020

are closed.

This isn't a recession because there isn't enough money. It is because of the many businesses closed or people don't feel safe going.

We don't need to prime the pump. We need to help those that need it until the vaccine lets us open up again.

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
70. And they should be helped
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:47 PM
Jul 2020

did I say they shouldn't
But why give money to couples with income of $100,000?

Polybius

(15,522 posts)
59. It's not useless, I need it to repair my hot tub
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 01:13 PM
Jul 2020

Right now I can't afford it. I also need a new headboard.

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
67. Nope
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:45 PM
Jul 2020

and nope.

There is better ways to help the people who need it and also help the economy than giving everyone a check.

Not sure why that is so hard for people to see.

Caliman73

(11,760 posts)
77. Here is the problem I see. I would not suggest self delete, but editing yes.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 03:20 PM
Jul 2020

There may be better ways to help the people who need it etc, etc... The problem is that you didn't really give any specifics, at least not in your original post.

First, your thread title makes a very big assumption, "A second stimulus check is usless". It can be interpreted as a judgment and by the looks of the response, many people took it as such. The number of times you had to write, "Re-read my post" also says something about the clarity. There will always be some misunderstanding and different interpretations, but when a sizable chunk of people are responding in the same way, it might be what or how you wrote the post rather than how people are reading it.

The way I read your post, you say that "we have to help the people who cannot work now, and the small businesses that remain closed..." I understand that you are saying that money should be focused on those who are hardest hit by the situation. I agree that those who are suffering the most should get the most help.

The problem is determining who is "suffering the most". The airlines were hemorrhaging money and no one was flying. There was money set aside for them, but then they use it for stock buybacks and not to pay to retain staff. SO, they are definitely suffering, but they used any stimulus to keep their shareholders and executives paid, but not the average worker. Same with many other corporations who received money.

People are absolutely using the money that they get to "stimulate the economy" in their way. People above a certain threshold of money (I am not sure what that threshold is but I can tell you it isn't 50,000 or even 100,000) do not need a 1200 dollar check, but depending on where you live, it can pay partial rent, food, or some other necessity.

If you want to make the argument that there are better ways to help people, then make the case. Make suggestions about what can be done.

For example, have everyone register with their local government to discuss their economic situation. If they are struggling to make rent because they have been laid off or have reduced hours and salary, then they need to list it. Tell the city/county/state government who your landlord is and the fed/state/local government can work out a way to provide at least half, if not all of your rent for a few months. Another example that may help many middle class families, forgive student loan debt. Not having to shell out 1000+ dollars a month would help people to prioritize spending and saving.

Finally, like I mentioned, it isn't just people who are not working and business that are closed by health necessity that are struggling. People who make good money typically, have taken reductions in pay. I have personally taken a substantial pay cut, though I still have my job. My wife who was also making decent money, has been laid off. We are doing better than many people, but to say that we do not need assistance and the implication that only the people who are completely shut down who should get help, feels like a judgement. Everyone, except the wealthiest among us, are suffering through this situation.

You are right that the GOP's efforts in this process are not in good faith. They are looking at this from a primarily if not completely political stand point. They are trying to buy votes. Democrats however, are trying to distribute money equitably in a complex situation. The problem is that people with a lot of money, have more resources to lobby and procure even more money and often do not care about the average citizen until the pain trickles up to them, which takes quite awhile.

We do need a way to better target and distribute financial assistance. What are your suggestions?

peacebuzzard

(5,184 posts)
66. They just need to extend the CARES package until the pandemic subsides.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:28 PM
Jul 2020

Until there is a vaccine and the curve has been flattened.
Just one check is like throwing peanuts at the critters.
The relief bill needs more substance, just continuing the current package is fine until the new assistance and new programs are implemented.


edhopper

(33,662 posts)
68. Exactly
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:46 PM
Jul 2020

Help the people who need it. Target the money to people in need and the businesses that need help.

edhopper

(33,662 posts)
71. People with enough money should say
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 02:49 PM
Jul 2020

Don't give me the money, Give it to the people and business that need it.

 

Dial H For Hero

(2,971 posts)
76. I have enough money, and I freely admit that I'll be happy to take another $1200.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 03:07 PM
Jul 2020

It'll pay for this trip quite nicely!

https://www.gadventures.com/trips/thailand-island-hopping/ATTW/

I can't book it for any time in the next few months, but with luck international travel will resume by next year...and in any case it can be rebooked for a later date if necessary.

bigtree

(86,016 posts)
79. it's stimulus
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 03:51 PM
Jul 2020

...you need to spend a good deal to have any effect on the economy.

Not sure if your slice of America is enough to have the desired effect. Remember, almost all of the money will go into the economy, right away. That's the idea behind it. Austerity in financial slowdowns is a recipe for total collapse.

totodeinhere

(13,059 posts)
88. The hard part is determining how much is enough money.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:50 PM
Jul 2020

I'm sure it will have some sort of means test. I think it was $75,000 last time but I think there is talk of lowering that this time. But that will have to be worked out in a compromise between two parties.

JI7

(89,287 posts)
74. I am a small business owner and stimulus checks will help a lot more than
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 03:04 PM
Jul 2020

those small business loans. If businesses don't do well they should close. regular stimulus payments will allow help us until we find something else and get through this.

But it's stupid to throw money at businesses that won't do well.

people can open up again in the future.

Luciferous

(6,087 posts)
80. We spent our first check on a new hot water heater and some other home improvements.
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:12 PM
Jul 2020

So while we didn't spend ours on rent or utilities, ours did go back into the economy, the majority of it to local companies. I work as support staff at a school and don't know if my job will be steady this year so a second stimulus for us will probably go into savings just in case I lose my job again. So it's money that we really don't need now but could help in the future.

 

Steelrolled

(2,022 posts)
83. We also made an effort to spend the money "locally"
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 04:30 PM
Jul 2020

It can't be perfect, but even for imported products, you can buy it from a local retailer vs Amazon.

Luciferous

(6,087 posts)
90. Yeah, our money went to a local HVAC company and a plumber. I'm sure they appreciated the business,
Tue Jul 28, 2020, 05:08 PM
Jul 2020

and if everything goes okay with my job we will probably use the second stimulus to replace our A.C. unit or get some electrical work done.

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