Conference Committee Negotiations on Economic Recovery

The Senate voted to close debate on the economic stimulus bill last night and passed on the bill today after a floor vote. The next step is for the House and Senate to each appoint members to a joint conference committee. The conference committee will negotiate the significant differences between the House and Senate versions. Cambridge-Somerville for Change supports the House bill, which keeps $40 billion in state aid, and $16 billion in school renovation and construction. The Senate will argue to keep $47 billion in auto and house-buying tax credits, as well as $69 billion to avoid Alternative Minimum Tax payments.

As President Obama has asked that the Congress uphold its promise to have a bill for him to sign before the President’s Day recess begins on Monday, February 16, the next few days are crucial. You can influence the conference committee negotiation by making your views known to conference members and encouraging your friends and family in other states to do the same. Tell your elected officials that you support the House Bill, and if there are elements of the Senate Bill that you prefer, let them know that too. Click here for a comparison of the House and Senate stimulus plans. Contact your Senators or Representative to make sure they know how you feel.