The legislation would unlock billions in new grants for states and local governments. But some lament its lack of help on housing and other issues. It will next go to the House.
Democrats’ multi-billion dollar climate, health care and tax package cleared a major hurdle on Sunday after the Senate passed the measure in a strictly party-line 51-50 vote, with Vice President Kamala Harris breaking the tie.
The bill, which includes around $370 billion for climate and energy programs, is expected to get a vote in the Democratic-controlled House on Friday. If approved there, it would go to President Biden for his signature. The legislation would send billions in climate funding to states and local governments—notably $4.75 billion to reduce greenhouse gas air pollution.
A smiling Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, of New York, stepped off the floor after the vote giving reporters a big thumbs up.
Route Fifty
By Kery Murakami
AUGUST 7, 2022