You guys have brought up a great discussion this morning. I hadn't even considered the cost of living factor with the stimulus checks. You're absolutely right - $1,200 in Louisiana or rural Mississippi is far different than $1,200 in New York or L.A. In one area, a family of 5 could feel absolutely elated when they get their checks, while in another area, a family of five's check would merely put a dent in a single mortgage payment.
The thing is though, I don't know of a fair way for them to decide on something like this without causing a nation-wide uproar.