WASHINGTON (CNM) -- In a rare display of punctuality, Congress approved a $390 billion spending package on Monday, more than two weeks before the holiday recess and in time for federal agencies to issue checks before January 1.

The Capitol, where lawmakers finished their work early

"Normally we would argue about this until Christmas Eve," said Rep. Lucille Brandvold, chair of an appropriations subcommittee. "This year we were told that if we waited, the checks might be dated 1900 and payable in horses."

The bill includes $2 billion for Y2K contingency planning and $40 million for a millennium celebration on the National Mall, as well as funding for what one aide described as "about 600 bridges, several of which are named after members."