It's 'the most wonderful time of the year,' but unless Congress acts - 12 million Americans will lose unemployment benefits the day after Christmas.
CBS News reports that, if that happens, many households could be pushed into poverty. Such a scenario could hinder COVID-19 economic recovery efforts.
Two programs authorized the CARES Act have Dec. 26, 2020 expiration dates.
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program covers 7.3 million Americans.
Another 4.6 million receive Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefits.
Should Congress extend both programs?
Are more robust programs necessary as local communities install mask mandates and the number of virus cases continue to surge - both of which have the potential to keep would be consumers at home?