WASHINGTON (March 15, 2010)--A bill that would provide tax credits to companies that hire unemployed workers cleared a Republican filibuster Monday in the U.S. Senate, setting the stage for final congressional approval.

The Senate voted 61 to 30 on Monday to end debate on the bill and is expected to vote on final passage Tuesday or Wednesday, sending the bill to President Barack Obama for his signature.

The $35 billion bill blends $15 billion in tax cuts and subsidies for infrastructure bonds issued by local governments with the $20 billion in federal transportation money.

The Senate passed a similar version of the bill in February.

The House made minor changes when it passed the bill, which required a second vote in the Senate.