Stimulus Clears Congress

A $787 billion stimulus
bill has cleared Congress.
It's hoped the massive package will help stave off the effects
of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression.
It cleared the Senate 60-to-38.
Friday night's winning vote came just before 11 p.m. when Ohio
Democrat Sherrod Brown voted "aye." The vote had been held open
so that Brown could attend his mother's memorial in Ohio. Three
Republican moderates sided with Democrats in the Senate. But
earlier in the House, Republican opposition was unanimous.
Supporters say the legislation could save or create 3.5 million
jobs. But Republicans complain the legislation is weighed down with
spending.
The legislation is among the costliest ever considered in
Congress. It provides billions of dollars to aid victims of the
recession through such things as unemployment benefits, food
stamps, medical care and job retraining. It also sends aid to the
states, and includes tax cuts, which Democrats say will help 95
percent of all Americans.
The measure will be signed into law in a few days by the
president, who is spending the holiday weekend back in Chicago.