In big step toward unsnarling long-delayed spending bills for fiscal 2003, the Senate has approved a $390-billion package funding all the non-defense federal programs, including many large construction accounts. The Senate vote during the evening of Jan. 23 was 69-29.
But one more big hurdle remains: The Senate must reconcile its figures with the House, whose spending recommendations differ for most programs. That House-Senate conference could begin as early as the week of Jan. 27.