COVID-19 relief bill: Democrats strike deal on jobless benefits after logjam
Senate leaders and moderate Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin have struck a deal over emergency jobless benefits, breaking a nine-hour logjam that had stalled the party’s showpiece $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief bill.
How to estimate child tax credits, stimulus checks in relief bill
The COVID-19 relief bill proposes an increase in child tax credits. Sullivan's Smart Sense shares the details.
In hopeful sign for economy, US adds 379,000 jobs in February
U.S. employers added a robust 379,000 jobs last month, the most since October and a sign that the economy is strengthening as confirmed viral cases drop, consumers spend more and states and cities ease business restrictions.
Senate GOP forces reading of 600-page COVID-19 relief bill aloud to delay vote
Senate Democrats looking to push the $.19 trillion COVID-19 relief bill through the upper chamber likely face mountains of GOP amendments and other delays that could take days to plow through.
Unemployment claims climb to 745,000; layoffs still high
The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits edged higher last week to 745,000, a sign that many employers continue to cut jobs despite a drop in confirmed viral infections and evidence that the overall economy is improving.
Japanese company selling in-flight meals in stores amid declining sales due to COVID-19 pandemic
One Japanese catering company is taking its popular bento boxes typically offered during in-flight meals and selling them at department stores and markets due to a decline in sales.
Teachers and school staff eligible for COVID-19 vaccine, other essential workers still waiting
The Texas Department of State Health Services announced their eligibility on Wednesday afternoon. It came a day after President Biden called on states to prioritize them. Although more than half of all states already had to some degree.
Workers who feel unsafe returning to work can collect unemployment checks
What the Texas Workforce Commission will do to crack down on unemployment fraud.
Health officials still recommend masks even after mask mandate dropped
The governor may have ordered Texas to re-open 100% but doctors are suggesting you continue avoiding crowds, social distancing, and wearing a mask.
Stimulus checks: Democrats agree to lower income limit for $1,400 COVID-19 relief payments
President Joe Biden and Democrats agreed Wednesday to tighten the upper income limits at which people could qualify for stimulus checks, a Democratic official said.
Fort Bend County residents can apply for new rental assistance program
Fort Bend County has launched a new emergency rental assistance program for residents who are unable to pay rent or utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here’s how filing your taxes early could cost you a $1,400 stimulus check
The House is expected to vote on the COVID-19 relief package this Friday.
Some families could receive up to $14,000 in Democrats' stimulus bill
Some American families could receive as much as $14,000 from the Democrats' new stimulus bill. See if you qualify, here:
Unemployment claims drop to 730,000; pandemic keeps layoffs high
The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell sharply last week but remained high by historical standards.
Tenants can apply for Houston-Harris County Emergency Rental Assistance Program
The Houston-Harris County Emergency Rental Assistance Program will provide relief for past-due rent, some past-due utilities, as well as some future rent payments for those financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's how to apply.
Harris County event offers free legal aid for renters facing eviction
Harris County renters facing the possibility of eviction for nonpayment of rent can learn about their rights and get help applying for rental assistance during a free event this weekend.
Automatic replacement SNAP benefits approved for 66 Texas disaster counties
Current SNAP recipients in the 66 counties receiving approval for automatic replacement benefits do not need to take any action and do not need to call 2-1-1 to receive replacement benefits.
Biden temporarily targets PPP loans to smallest and minority-owned businesses
The Biden administration is readying changes to the PPP aimed at targeting assistance to businesses that employ 20 or fewer workers and those that are minority-owned.
How to apply for FEMA assistance
FEMA is officially taking applications for disaster assistance for homeowners and renters affected by the winter storm in 77 Texas counties.
Six Flags planning to reopen all parks in 2021, hire thousands of seasonal workers
On Friday, the Texas-based theme park operator announced plans to reopen all 26 of its locations for the 2021 season, including five locations that stayed closed in 2020 due to continued coronavirus restrictions.