WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Senate on Thursday passed an economic stimulus plan that would send government rebate checks to millions of Americans including retirees and disabled veterans to help lift the economy and stave off an election-year recession.
The Senate overwhelmingly voted for the package that will provide one-time rebates of up to $600 for individuals and $1,200 for couples plus $300 for each child. Low income people, including retirees on Social Security and disabled veterans who pay no income taxes would receive checks of $300.
The House of Representatives was also expected to give its approval on Thursday and send it to President George W. Bush for his signature.
(Reporting by Donna Smith and Richard Cowan, editing by David Alexander)
