Over the past few years, millions of Americans have felt the impact of an economy that hasn't yet stabilized. Inflation, changes in employment, and the lingering effects of the pandemic have affected the wallets of many families.
In this context, a new legislative proposal has started to attract attention. A Republican senator wants tariff revenues to go directly back to citizens in the form of a check. The proposed amount is, at a minimum, $600 per adult and for each dependent child.
A proposal inspired by pandemic payments
The driving force behind the initiative is Josh Hawley, a senator from the Republican Party. The project is officially called the "American Worker Rebate Act." Its goal is clear: to return part of the money caused by the tariffs imposed by the previous administration.
The model is similar to the stimulus payments that Congress approved in 2020. At that time, millions of citizens received direct checks as an urgent measure in response to the health crisis. Now, the logic is that the money collected from tariffs should go back to families.
The proposed payment is $600 per person, including dependent children. In addition, if tariff revenues exceed projections for 2025, an increase in the amount per beneficiary is being considered.
Who would receive this payment and what the limits would be
The measure is aimed at American workers and families. Although it still needs to be approved, it is expected that people with low or middle incomes will receive the full amount. Meanwhile, those who exceed certain thresholds would see the aid reduced.
The only clear restriction established in the project is economic. A 5% reduction would be applied to the check if incomes exceed certain limits. For example, for joint filers, the threshold is $150,000 per year.
For heads of household, the limit is set at $112,500. For those who file individually, at $75,000. This structure is similar to the one used in previous stimulus payments.
Political context and Senator Hawley's vision
The senator has argued that this law is a way to correct the economic course. In his words, current policies have hurt the savings and stability of many families. He believes that tariffs have caused wealth for the country, and that it is fair to return a portion to workers.
In his statement, Hawley cites former President Trump as inspiration. He says that his project seeks for the working class to benefit directly from previous trade policies.
Although there is not yet a voting date, the debate is already on the table. If it moves forward, it could mean direct financial relief for millions of citizens before the end of the year.