Who needs the money, anyhow?

I’m not sure we need $600 each from the new slug of federal stimulus funds. While I always appreciate money that comes over the transom, we run a tight financial ship that provides for the essentials in life and small pleasures. In other words, as retirees, we plan prudently for what we need and what we want with the resources at hand. 

Millions of people are hurting as a result of the pandemic through absolutely no fault of their own. That includes the laid off unemployed and the myriad of very small businesses that are forced to abide with pandemic guidelines that destroy their financial viability. Those who continue to work as before are doing well.

What is needed is 1) a predictable safety net for the unemployed, 2) aid to keep small businesses with fixed expenses afloat until restrictions upon them are removed, and 3) aid for states, cities and towns that are working with reduced revenues and, incidentally, employ millions. 

So do I need $600? $1,200 for the two of us? Does my son’s family of four need $2,400 when he continues to work from home at full salary? Probably not. To receive these checks a need should be demonstrated.

The Congress came up with the $600 figure for almost everyone. Now Trump doesn’t think that’s enough. How about $2,000 instead? And Nancy Pelosi has signed on as a political ploy. Can the favor of the American people be bought? Will Trumps name be on the checks again?

It’s time we started thinking about a guaranteed income for all that covers the essential needs of food, shelter, medical care, education and socialization in safe, vibrant communities. Let’s think really big.