U.S. Senate puts off final vote on spending bill

Source: Xinhua | 03-06-2009 12:03

WASHINGTON, March 5 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Senate has put off until next week a final vote on a 410-billion-dollar spending bill to fund many government operations through Sept. 30 this year.

Democrats who control 58 of the 100 Senate seats on Thursday were unable to get the 60 votes needed to end debate on the bill and move to a vote on passage, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said.

The setback will force Democrats to seek support from Republicans, who say that the 410-billion-dollar spending bill is too costly and loaded down with thousands of pet projects.

It was reported Thursday night that Republicans have offered several changes to the bill, including trying to slim down the measure, but no amendments so far have been adopted.

A temporary spending measure to fund many government agencies expires on Friday at midnight, but an extension to last through Tuesday is expected, according to Reid.

The 2009 fiscal year ends on Sept. 30 this year. Up to now, only the departments of defense, home and security and veterans affairs have received their full funding, leaving most agencies with the temporary funds.

Editor:Zhang Yun