Senate turns to Sandy aid bill Monday

Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., said he favors a slower approach before spending so much money.

"We need far more information," he said. "How much is absolutely needed now? That's all we should really be considering now, the short-term needs. And then get some real information in."

GOP critics have begun questioning the need for some of the bill's spending, citing as one example its $2 million for roof repairs at Smithsonian Institution museums and support facilities in the Washington area.

Most of the money — $47.4 billion — is for immediate help for victims and other recovery and rebuilding efforts. There is also $13 billion for efforts to protect against future storms, spending that some Republicans question because it is not emergency-related.