The U.S. House of Representatives passed an $825 billion economic stimulus bill on Wednesday. The spending and tax cuts package is meant to give a boost to the ailing economy.

The votes were 244-188. All voting Republicans and 11 Democrats voted against it.

The bill includes $275 billion in tax cuts and $550 billion in spending.

The bill now goes to the senate, which is also led by Democrats. If the senate passes the bill, then President Barack Obama -- who urged both parties to support the bill -- must sign off on the bill, which then becomes law.

He said he wanted action, bold and swift, and that is exactly what we're doing today, said Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) as the debate in the House began, according to the New York Times.

Spending will include money for fixing roads, bridges and schools. Funds will also be spent on improving healthcare

Barack obama