The Associated Press is reporting Senate Democrats have successfully defeated a Republican filibuster and an extension of unemployment benefits to millions of Americans is on track.

Republicans had been fighting the extension, but the scales tipped shortly after Carte Goodwin was sworn in as the successor to West Virginia Senator Robert Byrd Tuesday morning. Following a final Senate vote, the extension will head to the House on Wednesday and then to President Obama’s desk.

The extension will provide an average of $309 a week to eligible Americans  

Around 2.5 million eligible Americans will receive an average of $309 a week through the extension. The Associated Press notes the payouts will put an additional $ 3 billion into the economy.

Republicans had argued that they are in favor of the benefit extension, but the additional payout should coincide with spending cuts elsewhere.