WASHINGTON — Top congressional Democrats say they and the White House have agreed to a "framework" to pay for their emerging $3.5 trillion social and environment bill.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi revealed the development to reporters on Thursday. But they offered no details, and the significance was unclear.

Biden administration officials and Democratic congressional leaders have been negotiating behind the scenes on the huge package of spending and tax initiatives.

The Biden White House and progressive Democrats are seeking $3.5 trillion to expand support for working families, universal Pre-K programs, expanded health care assistance and efforts to combat climate change.

The party has been divided over its final size and many of its details, and there has been no public word that agreements have been reached on any of those crucial questions.

In order for Biden's bill to pass, all 50 Senate Democrats must vote in favor of the bill.