For the first time in a decade, Amtrak's reauthorization was approved.
It came over the objections of the administration, which has been relentless in its attempts to cut Amtrak funding.
The vote was 74-24... and yes, John "90%" McCain voted "nay."
From the AP:
The legislation authorizes $2.5 billion a year for Amtrak, almost double its current federal funding level. The money would cover operating and capital expenses, including equipment purchases and railroad repairs. About $1.4 billion would help pay down Amtrak's more than $3 billion in debt.
The actual funding probably won't be voted on until the new Congress, but we've just cleared a huge hurdle in getting intercity rail back on track.
The bill also authorizes $2 billion in grants to the states to develop additional passenger services, and includes incentives for future high speed rail corridors.