The US Senate has approved an economic stimulus plan that will provide extra money to retired people and veterans.
Aimed at helping to bolster the economy and avoid a recession, the plan is expected to be quickly passed by the House of Representatives.
A day earlier a more generous version of the plan than that proposed by President George W Bush failed to find enough support in the Senate.
The credit crunch and housing market woes have dented the US economy.
The package, which won overwhelming support, includes providing one-off rebates of up to $600 for individuals and $1,200 for couples plus $300 for each child.
Those on low incomes, who do not pay income tax, would receive a $300 payout.
The moves add about $6bn to a $161bn plan which was passed by the House last month.
The new measures were passed in a vote by 81-16, but only after Democrats dropped calls for more unemployment benefits, assistance with fuel bills and plans to offer certain industries tax breaks.
(BBC)
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