The House Nov. 14 approved the conference report for the $105.8-billion fiscal 2008 transportation spending bill by a 270-147 vote. The conference agreement now moves to the Senate for final approval.

The conference agreement sets highway spending at $40.2 billion, a 3% increase over the 2007 amount. The bill also provides $1 billion to repair the nation's deficient bridges and $195 million in emergency funds for the reconstruction of the I-35W bridge in Minnesota.

In addition, the bill provides $3.5 billion for federal Airport Improvement Program construction grants.

Although the Senate is expected to pass the measure, the question of whether both chambers can override a threatened presidential veto remains.