The US Senate passed a sweeping $430 billion bill intended to fight climate change, lower drug prices and raise some corporate taxes on Sunday, a major victory for US President Joe Biden that Democrats hope will aid their chances of keeping control of Congress in this year's elections.
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After a marathon, two-day weekend session of debate and Republican efforts to derail the package, the Senate approved the legislation known as the "Inflation Reduction Act," by a 51-50 party line vote, with Vice President Kamala Harris casting the tie-breaking ballot.
The action sends the measure on to the House of Representatives for an expected Friday vote that could forward it, in turn, to the White House for Biden's signature.
"It's been a long, tough and winding road but at last, at last, we have arrived. I know it's been a long day and a long night but we've gotten it done," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. "Our bill reduces inflation, lowers costs, creates millions of good paying jobs and is the boldest climate package in US history. This bill will kickstart the era of affordable clean energy in America. It's a game-changer."
Democrats have drawn harsh attacks from Republicans over the legislation's $430 billion in new spending and roughly $740 billion in new revenue.
The legislation is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and shifting consumers to green energy, while cutting prescription drug costs for the elderly and tightening enforcement on taxes for corporations and the wealthy.
Because the measure pays for itself and reduces the federal deficit over time, Democrats contend that it will help bring down inflation, an economic liability that has also weighed on their hopes of retaining legislative control in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election.
