On Monday, the Senate discussed a spending bill designed to avoid a federal shutdown when dozens of Cabinet departments run out of money on March 15. According to USA Today, the bill contains Republican budget priorities that will likely not become law. President Clinton has criticized the measure and has called for increased funding for the environment and education. The House bill contains abortion restrictions which Senate Republicans would like to add to their version.
The bill will be completed by Wednesday (3-13) at the earliest.