US Senate approves fast-track trade authority for Obama

Washington: The US Senate overcame bitter divisions on trade policy late Friday and passed legislation that gives President Barack Obama authority to swiftly conclude a landmark Pacific Rim trade accord.

The measure, which now heads to the House of Representatives, allows the administration to finalize negotiations with 11 other nations and bring the trade deal to Congress for an up-or-down vote, with lawmakers not permitted to make changes.

The Senate voted 62-37 to approve the Trade Promotion Authority bill, or fast-track as it is known in Washington. The bill will next be considered by the House of Representatives.