Legislative Update X

The House of Representatives and Senate passed nonbinding budget plans that closely mirrored President Obama's proposals (there were some modest cuts) and will offer guidance on future legislation (though not a planned health care overhaul). However, the Senate passed an amendment calling for a lowered estate tax. Not a single Republican in the House or Senate voted for the budget outline, but more interestingly, 38 House Republicans voted against a GOP alternative.

The House passed a bill that would allow the FDA to regular tobacco. Under the bill, the FDA would be granted sweeping powers to regulate the production and marketing of tobacco products. The agency would be able to regulate nicotine levels, and makers of tobacco products would face tough new marketing and advertising restrictions. The bill now goes to the Senate.

The Senate confirmed Karl Eikenberry as ambassador to Afghanistan.