Lawmakers in Washington are getting closer to voting on a new economic bailout. A $1.9 billion bill would give people a $1400 check, boost unemployment benefits and expand child tax credits. Democrat US Senator Dick Durbin says it's time to act in a big way to support families and the nation's economy.

Increasing the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour is also being proposed but there is uncertainty if that aspect of the legislation would get needed Democrat support in the Senate.