McConnell open to state aid in next virus relief package

LISA MASCARO AP Congressional Correspondent WASHINGTON (AP) — Shifting tone, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Wednesday he is "open" to considering additional funds for state and local governments in the next coronavirus relief bill as the chamber returns to session during the pandemic. The Republican leader faced a storm of criticism from the nation's governors after panning Democrats' proposal for more than $500 billion to help cash-strapped local governments cover the sudden extra costs of police, fire and other front-line workers in the crisis. Last week, he suggested states should be allowed to go bankrupt. While saying he's willing to consider new funds, McConnell insisted the next package must also include federal liability protections from what he warned will be a
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