Disbursement Of Tax Rebate Checks Up In The Air

A Bipartisan push got the ball rolling.  Now Senate Democrats are defecting.  They want help for the poor and unemployed, and tax rebate checks won't hit the presses until Congress finds consensus.  News On 6 anchor Jennifer Loren reports the pressure is on to get those tax rebate checks in the mail.

But a move in the Senate could put the economic stimulus package on hold.   Top Democrats are thinking about adding items to the measure, like boosting benefits for the unemployed, and people on food stamps.  But, some Senators like Chris Dodd will push their colleagues to accept the deal, as it stands.

"I think it's a good first step and I think timing is important and therefore it's important we move quickly to get this done," said Senator Chris Dodd, D-Connecticut.

Lawmakers are also getting pressure from President Bush.  He says the current stimulus plan is good and will help the economy only if it gets passed quickly.

"I strongly believe it is a mistake to delay or derail this bill," said President Bush.

House leaders are ready to take action.

"The House will act quickly and decisively to put recovery rebates in the hands of hardworking Americans," said Representative Nancy Pelosi, D-House Speaker.

And Republicans are renewing their call for the Senate to follow suit.

"I just hope that they do it quickly and we can get it to the president's desk," said Representative John Boehner, R-Minority Leader.