Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Republicans Vote to Cut $61 Billion In Government Spending VOA News February 19, 2011 Congressmen walk down the steps of the House of Representatives as they work throughout the night on a spending bill, on Capitol Hill in Washington, February 18, 2011 Photo: AP Congressmen walk down the steps of the House of Representatives as they work throughout the night on a spending bill, on Capitol Hill in Washington, February 18, 2011 The Republican controlled U.S. House of Representatives voted early Saturday to cut $61 billion in government spending, including stopping funding for President Barack Obama's healthcare reform law. Only three Republicans joined Democrats in voting against the legislation, which now goes to the Senate.  The vote will likely intensify an already contentious battle over spending and budget cutbacks. Democrats are fighting some of the cuts to social programs, health care, the Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory agencies.  Republicans won a majority in the House of Representatives during the last election, in part, because of their promises to cut government spending. Democrats still hold the majority in the Senate, and have said they will not accept such drastic reductions.  The previous fiscal year ended September 30, but Congress extended last year's budget to ensure the government continues functioning while the debate over the new spending bill continues. That extension ends at midnight March 4. If a new budget is not passed before then, the government could shut down. President Obama says he is committed to working with both parties to find a compromise. The president, however, has made clear he would veto the large spending cuts under discussion if they reach his desk. Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters. .