Infrastructure bill blocked by Senate Republicans as lawmakers haggle over details Bart Jansen and Savannah Behrmann, USA TODAY What happens now after Senate Republicans block bipartisan infrastructure bill? Replay Video UP NEXT WASHINGTON – Senate Republicans on Wednesday blocked the start of formal debate on bipartisan infrastructure legislation, a core part of President Joe Biden’s economic plan, because the bill text and cost weren’t available as negotiations continued. The 51-49 vote against beginning debate, which needed to clear a 60-vote threshold to succeed, came after a series of late-night negotiations. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., changed his vote to help defeat the measure so he could be on the prevailing side to call it up for another vote in the future. Senators continue to haggle over details on transit and how to pay for the entire package.