‘VERY CLOSE:’ $2.9T AID DEAL TAKES SHAPE IN CONGRESS

WASHINGTON Senior Democrats and Republicans in Congress said Tuesday they were close to a deal on a $2.9 trillion stimulus package, but it was unclear when they would be ready to vote. “We are very close,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch Mcconnell said, as the chamber opened its session. The package includes a proposed $725 billion fund for industry, payments of up to $4,350 to millions of U.S. families, as well as $510 billion for small-business loans, $360 billion for expanded unemployment aid and at least $110 billion for hospitals.