Free money for regular folks!

Okay, there really is no such thing as a free lunch. But it appears Congress (Republicans and Democrats) has agreed on a stimulus package for the economy. There will not be aid for ailing state governments, nor any increases in Food Stamps or unemployment benefits, as Democrats had originally talked about. In exchange for Pelosi giving this up, Republicans agreed to allow the tax rebates to go to people whose income is too low to pay taxes, but they are required to have some earned income (i.e. you still have to work). The rebates will be $300 per adult or child, capped at $1,200 per family. The refunds will only go to individuals with incomes below $75,000 or couples with incomes below $150,000. No word yet on what the cost is, but it will likely be added to the deficit (not paid for). Of course, this all still has to be voted on and signed by the President, but word is there is agreement between Republicans and Democrats in Congress.

I personally am not in a financial crisis, and would rather the government not send me a check. Ultimately, our government is just borrowing more money from foreign governments to bail us out of a situation we wouldn't be experiencing in the first place if there had been more oversight of unscrupulous lenders (and maybe better financial education of our people). But given that so many people are up that creek right now, it's nice that they at least get a small paddle. I may be looking for some worthwhile organizations to recommend that help people who actually need it, in case you are in my situation and don't need another loan from China.