Multiple associations representing industries hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic celebrated the $1.9 trillion economic recovery package passed by Congress Wednesday.

Perhaps the most visible element of the American Rescue Plan will be the delivery of economic stimulus checks of up to $1,400 to individuals below certain income thresholds. However, the legislation also contains billions of dollars in aid for specific industries, such as airlines, public transit and restaurants.

"On behalf of our member carriers, Airlines for America applauds the U.S. Congress for passing the American Rescue Plan, which includes provisions to extend the highly successful Payroll Support Program that has been vital to preserving the jobs of the U.S. airline industry's hardworking employees—flight attendants, pilots, mechanics, gate agents and others," A4A CEO Nick Calio said in a statement.

Calio thanked both Democrats and Republicans although no GOP lawmakers voted for the bill, arguing that the price tag was too high given the U.S. economy is already showing signs of recovery.

The American Library Association noted the bill included $200 million for the Institute of Museum and Library Services, a federal agency that provides grants for libraries and museums. It also includes billions of dollars for academic, public and school library-eligible programs.

"The pandemic has exposed the level to which Americans rely on libraries to access the internet and learn to navigate it, find jobs and gain new skills, learn to read and identify what information to trust, and become actively engaged in their communities," ALA board President Julius C. Jefferson said in a statement. "At the same time, COVID-19 has forced many states and local governments to implement cuts and furloughs that threaten the very services that communities are relying on for relief."

At least one association was somewhat critical of the bill. Business Roundtable echoed the concerns of some moderate lawmakers seeking a "more targeted approach" that would have lowered the legislation's overall cost. Still, the group said in a statement that "enactment of this package will help deliver urgent resources to strengthen the public health response and provide assistance for individuals and small businesses hardest hit by the pandemic."

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