Senate Passes 2008 Defense Bill

The stalemate between the White House and Capitol Hill over the 2008 Defense bill is nearing an end. The Senate passed a revised version of the measure on Jan. 22 by a vote of 91-3, with a provision that address President Bush’s concerns over seizure of Iraqi assets held in the U.S. The measure, which sets a 3.5 percent 2008 raise retroactive to the start of the year, also authorizes payment of recruiting and enlistment bonuses, as well as other special pays. It is headed back to the White House for Bush’s signature.