WASHINGTON -- Rhode Island Reps. Patrick J. Kennedy and James R. Langevin, both Democrats, joined the overwhelming House majority that voted Thursday afternoon to impose a heavy federal tax on bonuses paid to executives of financial companies bailed out by U.S. taxpayers.

The bonuses, totaling $165 million, were paid to employees of troubled insurer American International Group, including to traders in the unit that nearly brought about the company's collapse.

In all, 243 Democrats and 85 Republicans voted "yes" on the bill. It was opposed by six Democrats and 87 Republicans.

-- John E. Mulligan, Journal Washington bureau, with Associated Press reports