Senate stimulus plan hits roadblock

Senate Democrats’ hopes of passing a $157 billion economic stimulus package hit a blockade when their Republican colleagues indicated yesterday they would not support such a measure, published reports said. The stimulus bill is expected to land on the Senate floor next week Democratic leaders said they still hope to add changes the House’s $146 billion version, but acknowledged they would not have the 60 necessary votes for the larger package. The House passed a $146 billion package 385-35 on Tuesday with the plan to include rebates checks of $600 to $1,200 for families and include some tax breaks for businesses (InvestmentNews, Jan. 15). Democrats, who control the senate by a slim one-vote margin, hope to add benefits for disabled veterans and low-income seniors, The New York Times reported today.