Today is a red-letter day for parents and kids trapped in failing D.C. public schools. The Senate has just passed the much-delayed omnibus spending bill for fiscal year 2004, which has language attached to it authorizing a voucher program in the District. The vote comes after several days of delay and threats of filibuster from Democrats and a handful of Republicans who objected to the pork-laden measure. In fact, a motion to close debate on the bill failed on Tuesday, 48-45. But Senate Democratic leader Tom Daschle said the minority has "made its point" and has no interest in shutting down the federal government. Look for the President to sign the bill shortly. Now, more than likely, D.C. vouchers are off to the courts.
"GOP hopes to push lagging spending bill," by Alan Fram, Associated Press, January 22, 2004
"Dems' stance on omnibus spending bill hardens despite threats by GOP," by Alexander Bolton and Geoff Earle, The Hill, January 20, 2004
"Fate of $820 billion omnibus spending bill still unclear," by Peter Cohn and Jerry Hagstrom, Congress Daily, January 16, 2004