The US government and Congress are close to agreeing a fast-track plan to boost the economy.
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They might announce a $150bn (Ј75bn) package of tax rebates and other incentives as early as Thursday.
Reports said the measures would by-pass steps in the approval process and go straight to a congressional vote.
Tax rebates
Economists say the package needs to be put into action as soon as possible, before it is too late to help the economy.
The plan is expected to include a $300 tax rebate for all those in paid employment. Families will get an additional $300 dollars for each child, with a cap at $1,200.
Business will receive incentives to encourage investment and other tax breaks.
House Republican leader John Boehner, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson met for more than five hours on Wednesday.
'Budgetary hangover'
They are hoping the plan, combined with Tuesday's sharp cut in interest rates by the US Federal Reserve, will help stop the economy slipping into recession.
The US has been hit by a slump in the property market and a credit crisis caused by banks investing in assets backed by sub-prime mortgages.
Some politicians are worried about the damage the plan will do to government finances.
It could potentially double last year's budget deficit of $163bn.
"I am concerned that in our rush to help, we talk ourselves into a quick, feel-good hit today that will leave us with a bigger budgetary hangover tomorrow," said Rep Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, senior Republican on the House Budget Committee.
(BBC)
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