SENATE REDIRECTS IRAQ WAR FUNDS TO PORT SECURITY

Published May 4, 2006 12:01 AM by The Maritime Executive

President Bush’s request for funds to pay for continuing operations in Iraq was cut by the U.S. Senate last week. The amendment, passing on a 59-39 vote, will divert funds to pay for border patrols and much needed equipment for the U.S. Coast Guard.

House and Senate negotiations will continue next month, as lawmakers struggle to pare the bill down to a level where a promised veto by the White house would not be necessary. The President has signaled his intention to veto the bill, intended for Iraq and hurricane assistance, if it exceeds $92.2 billion.