Senate Approves Stimulus Package
By: Tara Mergener, CBS News
Updated: February 10, 2009
The economic stimulus package is one step closer to President Obama's desk. The Senate approved its version Tuesday. President Barack Obama calls that a good first step. But he reminded voters at a town hall meeting, there's still more work to be done. Moments after lawmakers cast their votes, President Obama spoke to an enthusiastic audience at a town hall meeting in Ft. Myers, Florida.
The President is pushing the stimulus plan in visits to cities hit hard by the economic downturn. The people in Fort Myers were anxious to tell him about their concerns.
The President may have to fight hard for provisions in the stimulus plan, such as education funding. Republicans appear ready to play hardball to keep the price tag down on the final plan.
Lawmakers from the House and Senate will meet to craft the final bill. GOP lawmakers want the focus to stay on tax cuts. Democrats argue new spending would create more new jobs.
President Obama is pushing both sides to come together quickly.
Lawmakers are hoping to have the final bill ready by Friday.
