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Congressional aides say a tentative agreement on a multibillion-dollar financial industry bailout gives President Bush's administration just a fraction of the $700 billion it has requested up front, with half the money subject to a congressional veto.
Under the plan, the Treasury secretary would get $250 billion for the plan immediately and could have another $100 billion if he certifies it's needed. The last $350 billion could be blocked by a vote of Congress.
The plan is designed to give lawmakers a stronger hand in controlling the unprecedented rescue plan.
Under the tentative plan, the government would take on the bad mortgage debt from shaky financial institutions in order to free up credit.
Members of the Louisiana congressional delegation are getting earfuls from their constituents.
At U.S. Rep. Jim McCrery's office in Shreveport, calls and e-mails are running 9-1 against the administration's plan.
McCrery, who is not seeking re-election this fall, said he has not decided how he will vote.
U.S. Sens. Mary Landrieu and David Vitter both agree something must be done, but said taxpayers must be safeguarded at the same time. They aren't committing on how they will vote.
--details on Local page
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