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Michigan senators announce COVID-19 relief bill for older children, adult dependents

April 4, 2020
<p>Lansing Capitol building on Sept. 19, 2019. </p>

Lansing Capitol building on Sept. 19, 2019.

Photo by Connor Desilets | The State News

Sens. Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters have announced legislation to include older children and adult dependents in COVID-19 relief payments, according to a press release.

“Last week, Congress came together and passed funding for workers, families, health care providers and small businesses during this coronavirus crisis," Stabenow said in a statement. "Most Michigan residents will be receiving direct payments, but the law left behind 17- and 18-year-olds, college students and, other dependent adults. This is unfair to these people as well as their parents and caregivers. This new bill will make sure taxpayers receive the $500 payment for all their dependents."

On March 27, President Donald Trump signed the coronavirus stimulus package, which states any taxpayer that earns under $75,000 and has a valid social security number is eligible for a $1,200 check. An additional $500 for each dependent under 17 years of age is also included. However, not everyone claimed as a dependent is eligible for the stimulus payment.

Stabenow and Peters proposed the All Dependents Count Act in order to expand the definition of a dependent able to qualify for the additional $500. Under this legislation, dependents over the age of 16 as well as other adult dependents would become eligible.

“Michiganders are going through incredible hardships during this pandemic," Peters said in a statement. "We need to work to ensure that families — including those with dependents — have more relief and support available to them. I’m pleased to cosponsor this bill, which will ensure adults that have dependents they care for — including 17 and 18 year-olds, college students and those who are disabled — receive the much-needed support to help them get through this crisis.”

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