Fiscal policy can't end a pandemic, but it can enable the eventual recovery
The deficit for the fiscal year ending March 31 will also be higher than forecast
Measures include doubling payments to low-income seniors and financial relief for parents
The relief comes as small business confidence falls to an all-time low
The final bill gives the federal ministers of health and finance the power to approve all spending to deal with a public health emergency
The economic rescue package would expand unemployment benefits, provide a program for small businesses and give direct payments to most Americans
The central bank says it will establish three new lending facilities as well
The goal is to ensure states and cities can borrow at low cost
The single biggest item is deferring tax payments until August, accounting for an estimated $55 billion
Canada's economy is expected to contract in the second and third quarters