FACTBOX-Economic stimulus bill moves through US Congress
Jan 23 (Reuters) - A massive economic stimulus bill is winding its way through the U.S. Congress pushed by Democratic leaders who want to present President Barack Obama with legislation he can sign by mid-February.
Here is the status of the $825 billion bill, which aims to jump-start an economy in recession since December, 2007:
APPROVED IN HOUSE COMMITTEES:
* $358 billion: The House Appropriations Committee approved the major spending portion of the package -- $358 billion in spending to rebuild roads, bridges, waterways, energy grids and other job-creating construction projects. It also would boost federal investment in education and expand food aid programs. No Republican on the panel voted for the bill.
* $367 billion: The House Ways and Means Committee approved a second part of the stimulus bill. The $367 billion includes (figures rounded up):
- $275 billion in temporary tax cuts for workers, tax incentives to produce renewable energy, and breaks for builders and other companies that would be allowed to write off current losses against five previous tax years.
- $48 billion to help unemployed people keep their health insurance and to invest in health information technology.
- $46 billion for expanded unemployment benefits and aid to needy families and child support.
This measure also was approved on a partisan vote. Continued...
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