July gain marked third monthly increase in consumer spending
Economists say a full recovery remains far off
The European economy may take longer to heal
There have been consecutive months of record-breaking gains and sales are up from a year ago
However, growing evidence suggests that sales could be slowing
Hiring slowed sharply in manufacturing, construction and health care services
The decline in GDP in Q2 marked the sharpest such drop on record
The announcement comes as the U.S. struggles to control the coronavirus
Groups like hospitals and educational institutions will be included
New projects are still at risk due to pandemic hotspots