(Trends Wide) — The U.S. House Budget Committee voted Saturday to pass the $ 3.5 trillion spending bill and send it to the House floor.
The vote was from 20 to 17 and Democratic Rep. Scott Peters of California joined Republicans in voting against the bill. It came as a necessary step for the bill to reach the plenary session of the Chamber, where it can be amended.
Democrats have fought to pass President Joe Biden’s economic agenda, including the huge tax and spending bill that would expand education, health care and childcare support, address the climate crisis and make more investments in infrastructure.
The bill has raised concerns among moderates, who worry that some of the measures, including on drug prices and climate, go too far, as progressives say they have committed enough already. Republicans are united in their opposition.
During its meeting on Saturday, the House Budget Committee was unable to change what other committees have already voted to approve.