The U.S. Senate discusses a $1 trillion infrastructure bill in a rare Saturday meeting Reuters

By Susan Conwell

Washington (Reuters)-The U.S. Senate considered a bill at a rare Saturday meeting that would spend $1 trillion on roads, railroads, and other infrastructure, as lawmakers on both sides tried to push Joe · President Biden’s legislative priorities.

This ambitious plan has won the support of Democrats and Republicans, and has cleared two obstacles with broad advantages in the highly divided Senate.

But so far, legislators have not seen the final text of the bill, which includes about $550 billion in new spending, which is still being drafted on Saturday. The earlier vote was for a shell bill, which will be incorporated into actual legislation once it is completed.

U.S. Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer said in the Senate that the bipartisan group dedicated to legislation needs more time.

“The staff are still working and have stated that they will prepare the final legislative text tomorrow,” Schumer said Saturday night.

“When the legislative text is ready, I will propose it as a replacement amendment, after which we can start voting on the amendment,” said the Senate Democrat.

After passing the $1 trillion bill, Schumer’s goal is to advance a package of up to 3.5 trillion U.S. dollars, focusing on climate change and home care for the elderly and children. This faces firm opposition from the Republican Party and some objections from moderate Democrats.

“The Senate will move forward on two tracks of infrastructure before the August recess begins. The longer it takes to complete, the longer we will be here. But we will get the job done,” Schumer said on Saturday Earlier.

The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 66 to 28 on Friday, and 16 Republicans joined the support of all 48 Democrats and two independents.

The package will greatly increase the country’s expenditure on roads, bridges, transportation and airports. Supporters predict that it will eventually pass the Senate and House of Representatives, and eventually reach Biden’s desk, where he can sign it into law.

In addition to the previously approved US$450 billion, it also includes approximately US$550 billion in new expenditures. It also includes funds to eliminate lead water pipes and build electric vehicle charging stations.

The bill does not include funding for most climate change and social initiatives that Democrats aim to pass a separate $3.5 trillion measure without Republican support.

The Democratic Party maintains a weak advantage in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, which means that the party must be united to achieve its legislative goals.

Progressive (NYSE:) members of the House Democratic Caucus have stated that a $1 trillion package is not enough, and the Senate can also implement changes that may complicate the opportunity to become law.

But supporters including Schumer and Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell are optimistic about its prospects.