Agreement Reached On $789 Billion Stimulus Bill

WASHINGTON (AP) - A massive tax and spending bill intended to
stimulate the badly battered economy is a big step closer to
President Barack Obama's desk.
With lightning speed, key members of Congress have announced
agreement on a $789 billion package designed to create millions of
jobs.
The bill includes help for victims of the recession in the form
of unemployment benefits, food stamps, health coverage and more, as
well as billions for states that face the prospect of making deep
cuts in their own programs.
It also preserves Obama's signature tax cut - a break for
millions of lower and middle income taxpayers, including those who
don't earn enough to pay income taxes.
Conspicuously absent from the news conference was House Speaker
Nancy Pelosi. It's not clear whether she stayed away out of
unhappiness or a scheduling conflict.
A House vote on the measure is possible as early as tomorrow,
with the Senate to follow before lawmakers begin a scheduled
weeklong vacation.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)