Along Party Lines, House Passes Massive Economic Recovery Package

Washington, D.C., Jan. 28, 2009 — The House of Representatives today passed a sweeping economic stimulus package that includes billions of dollars in support for Title I, students with disabilities, school renovation and other educational assistance over two years.

Despite President Barack Obama's appeal for bipartisan support for the package, the measure was approved by a vote of 244 to 188, with no Republican support. Several Republican lawmakers expressed concern that the money won't create a significant number of jobs.

The measure, costing nearly $820 billion overall, would provide almost $150 billion for education or education-related programs.