Late in the evening on Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell informed lawmakers in the chamber that, following a vote to pass a historic $2 trillion economic relief package, the Senate would close for business until April 20. He said it was to protect senators and staff from the spread of the coronavirus.

But McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, hinted that more economic aid might be needed and that the Senate should “stay nimble” and prepare to return sooner.