Congress took a decisive step Wednesday toward finalizing a $26 billion bill offering aid to states, a surprise win for Democrats keen to demonstrate they are taking action on an economy showing signs of weakness. The bill, designed to prevent teacher layoffs and help states with their Medicade payments, comes after months of foot dragging. Lawmakers have proven reluctant to spend money on everything from stimulus projects to additional unemployment insurance, amid increasing voter concernabout the size of the u.s. budget deficit.
Wednesday's 61-38 vote in the Senate overcame a filibuster and made final passage in the Senate likely as soon as Thursday August 5th. Nancy Polisi responded by calling back House Members from their summer recess. ( A rare move ) then she will send it back to the presidents desk.
Republicans warned that states were becoming too dependent on federal aid. "For the first time in our history, the federal government is the single largest source of revenue for the states." Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel (R.ky.) "When does it end?"
Republicans also complained about the bill's revenue source. The legislation is paid for in part by imposing new limits on foriegn tax credits used by u.s. multinationalists to lower the taxes they pay this country. Republicans said this would drive companies, and jobs, overseas.
When so many states so far in debt come to a Republican House for help when they are in control, I'm afraid the answer will be, Sorry!
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