Senators returned to work in the Capitol on Monday, May 4, after a push by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY). Initially, the House was also scheduled to return but reversed course due to concerns over ensuring that the chamber would be able to meet in-person safely, and is now expected to return on May 11.

As lawmakers return to Washington, D.C., the top priorities will include additional coronavirus relief legislation, judicial nominations, and procedural changes, such as those that would allow remote or proxy voting. Among the proposals being considered in the COVID-19 packages will be the need for certain liability protections for businesses, hazard pay, and more federal funding for states and municipalities to ensure the continuation of essential services.