As lawmakers debate stimulus measures to help Americans weather an economic slowdown, there are signs that the coronavirus is already having an impact on Americans.
A new NPR/PBS Newshour/Marist poll released on Tuesday finds that 18% of respondents say they, or someone in their household, have lost their job because of the outbreak of the virus.
The percentage of people who lost jobs was higher for those who make less than $50,000 with 25% of respondents in that category saying they lost their job.
The new survey comes as S&P Global said the United States could be entering a recession.
“While economic data for March is just starting to be released, the severity of the blow from the coronavirus leads us to believe that the U.S. is entering a recession — if not already in one,” a memo from the company read.
As early as last week, there were signs that the outbreak of the virus was beginning to have an impact on the economy. The Washington Post reported on March 11 that hundreds of workers across the country had been laid off because of the virus.
Additionally, on Tuesday, Marriott, the largest hotel company in the world, confirmed that it would furlough tens of thousands of employees. Meanwhile, airline companies have begun asking their employees to take unpaid leave.
Other retailers such as Macy’s and Nike announced that they were closing stores across the country. And, Starbucks announced it was switching to a “to go” model for its stores.
And, Regal Cinemas said it would close all of its theaters in the country.
Senators are currently debating a stimulus package that some analysts estimate could total over a trillion dollars as large portions of the economy are shut down to help stop the spread of the virus.
President Donald Trump also signaled that he would support giving Americans $1,000 to help them meet their financial obligations.
