In a 69 to 30 vote, the U.S. Senate passed the $1.2 trillion package to repair roads and bridges, extend broadband service and address the needs of mass transit.

The Bill will now be debated by the House where the Democratic majority intend to add to expenditure and also link the legislation with companion "social infrastructure" legislation

It is possible that damage inflicted by Hurricane Ida will expedite approval of the package when the House reconvenes after the recent August recess.