US House passes economic bill
29 January 2009

In a swift victory for President Barack Obama, the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives approved a historically huge $819bn economic stimulus bill on 29 January 2009, with spending increases and tax cuts at the heart of the young administration's plan to revive a badly ailing economy.

The vote was 244-188, with Republicans unanimous in opposition despite Obama's pleas for bipartisan support. "This recovery plan will save or create more than three million new jobs over the next few years," the president said in a written statement released moments after the House voted.

Earlier, Obama had declared "we don't have a moment to spare" as congressional allies hastened to do his bidding in the face of the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. On the final vote, the legislation drew the support of all but 11 Democrats while all Republicans opposed it.

The vote sent the bill to the Senate, where debate could begin as early as 2 February 2009 on a companion measure already taking shape. Democratic leaders have pledged to have legislation ready for Obama's signature by mid-February.

A mere eight days after Inauguration Day, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that these events heralded a new era. "The ship of state is difficult to turn," said the Californian Democrat. "But that is what we must do. That is what President Obama called us to do in his inaugural address."

news24.com