House approves $447 billion omnibus spending measure

Washington PostThe House voted Thursday to approve half a dozen spending bills contained in one large package, as the chamber races to complete its work before adjourning for the year.The $447 billion measure, which combines six appropriations bills, passed 221 to 202, with 28 Democrats joining all 174 Republicans present in opposing it. GOP lawmakers said the measure was overinflated and rushed… Read more

Drugmakers, Hospitals, Insurers Fight Changes to Health Bill

BloombergDec. 10 (Bloomberg) — Drugmakers, hospitals and insurers are ramping up their opposition to provisions targeting their industries in health-care legislation as senators try to squeeze more savings out of the companies.The U.S. Senate today may vote on an amendment that would allow the importation of cheaper medicines from Canada and other countries. The plan, from lawmakers led by North… Read more

Iraqi Officials Study Delayed Election Date

New York TimesFiled at 3:55 a.m. ETBAGHDAD (AP) — An Iraqi election official says discussions are under way to set a new date for the country’s parliamentary elections.The elections had been scheduled for Jan. 16, but officials are now studying at least a six-week delay until late February or early March. Iraqi lawmakers finally approved rules for the election late Sunday after weeks of… Read more

Fla. House set to vote on rail bill

MiamiHeraldTALLAHASSEE, Fla. — The Florida House is set to vote on a bill that would clear the way for the proposed SunRail commuter system in central Florida.The chamber Monday is expected to pass the legislation. It’ll then go to the Senate, where the outcome remains in doubt. Lawmakers there have twice before defeated similar measures.Supporters say SunRail will create thousands of… Read more