Written By As the world navigates through a global pandemic and economic recovery, policymakers have been working to implement new policies that address current challenges and future needs. From healthcare to education, here are some of the top policy changes you need to know about right now:
- COVID-19 Relief Package: The American Rescue Plan
In March 2021, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act into law, a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package. The bill includes funding for vaccine distribution, unemployment benefits, small business aid, and direct stimulus payments to individuals and families. The American Rescue Plan aims to provide critical relief to individuals and businesses impacted by the pandemic.
- Infrastructure Plan: The American Jobs Plan
In March 2021, President Biden also announced his $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan, the American Jobs Plan. The plan includes investments in transportation, broadband, clean energy, and affordable housing. The proposal also includes measures to address climate change and create millions of new jobs. The American Jobs Plan has been met with mixed reactions, with some questioning the price tag and the scope of the proposal.
- Healthcare Policy: The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare, is a federal law aimed at expanding access to affordable healthcare. The Biden administration has taken steps to strengthen the ACA by reopening enrollment, expanding subsidies, and increasing outreach efforts. The administration has also proposed additional healthcare policies, including a public option and a lowering of the Medicare eligibility age.
- Education Policy: Student Loan Forgiveness
The Biden administration has also proposed significant changes to education policy, including student loan forgiveness. President Biden has called for up to $10,000 in student loan forgiveness for all borrowers, and up to $50,000 for borrowers with certain types of debt. The administration has also proposed expanding access to free community college and investing in historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions.
- Immigration Policy: The Border Crisis
The Biden administration has been facing criticism for its handling of the border crisis. In January 2021, President Biden signed a series of executive orders aimed at reversing some of the Trump administration’s immigration policies. However, the surge of migrants at the border has put a strain on the administration’s resources and prompted calls for stronger border security measures.
These are just a few of the top policy changes that are currently shaping the political landscape in the United States. As policymakers continue to grapple with the challenges of the pandemic and economic recovery, it will be important for citizens to stay informed about the policies that affect their lives.
