The last stimulus package did not work, that is a consensus opinion. Why are they trying this again?
Also why does Obama want to give the most tax rebates to people who don't pay federal income tax? If there is a stimulus, checks to needy individuals will not change the economic predicament or bad choices. Its all about business, financial and consumer confidence. Make loans available and cut people's taxes so they have more $ to spend and invest.
Most poor people are going to pay bills, rent and food with a stimulus check, just like last time. This is not an economic stimulus. This $500 check will not go to business investments and spending that meaningfully affects the overall economy.
We must cut spending. What did families do historically when they had less $...they cut their spending. Gov must do the same.
The financial bailout makes sense because it should have provided banks the money to loan to needy businesses and individuals who qualify...it is failing because no one made the financial institutions accountable.
Lessons: stimulus checks to individuals do not work; if the gov gives any bailouts they must come with full accountability and conditions.
Other lessons: cut capital gains taxes, cut overall tax burdens so people will spend and invest more, and cut foolish spending and bloated gov programs!