On Tuesday President Bush signed a continuing resolution (CR) that will fund the government for another twelve months.
Continuing Resolution Sent to the President
Congress on Saturday sent a Continuing Resolution (CR) to the President for his signature. This bill will keep the Government running until March 2009. The total cost of the bill, which was approved by a 78 – 12 vote in the Senate, has a price tag of $634 billion.
Congress Overrides President’s Veto
Late Tuesday night Congress successfully averted a 10.6 percent cut to the Medicare physician reimbursement rate just before it was scheduled to take affect at midnight. Congress voted to override the president’s veto of H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act.
Under considerable pressure from physician and patient groups, many Republicans split with the president and vote in favor of an override. The House of Representatives voted 383 to 41 to override while the Senate voted 70 to 26. Both well above the required 2/3 majority.
White House Vetoes Medicare Bill
Earlier today President Bush vetoed H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, which was approved by Congress last week.
President Bush Signs FY 08 Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Bill
President Bush signed the Fiscal Year 2008 emergency supplemental appropriations bill today. We are happy to report the bill included an additional $150 million for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Click here to read a statement from Senator Byrd (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

