WASHINGTON (AP) - The first vote is set for today as the Senate

continues work on the financial overhaul package.

The Senate votes on a noncontroversial amendment that says

taxpayers wouldn't pick up the tab to bail out companies in dire

financial straits.

Despite that, some Republicans insist that bailouts remain a

possibility. They say taxpayers could still have to front the money

if the government moves to liquidate a big failing company like

insurance giant AIG.

Financial experts argue it would be irresponsible to preclude

the use of taxpayer money in the middle of a financial crisis.

Any possibility that the public will perceive the legislation as

a bailout of the industry has spooked lawmakers. The $700 billion

Troubled Asset Relief Program has been a political albatross.