House of Representatives removes a razor from its wrist
Temporarily, anyway. This vote is "non-binding." On the other hand since the seven Republicans that voted against this were from "economicaly struggling states," we may find more Republicans rejecting it as the Bush economic plan continues apace.
7 in GOP Reverse Earlier Support of New Rules
By Juliet Eilperin
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, October 3, 2003; Page A02
In a sharp rebuff to the Bush administration, the House reversed course yesterday and voted to oppose the White House's efforts to rewrite overtime pay rules. The action marked a significant victory for Democrats and labor leaders, who contended the administration's plans would deny overtime benefits to millions of employees when they work more than 40 hours a week.
While the 221 to 203 vote is not binding, it essentially overturns earlier House approval and puts the chamber on record as supporting the Senate, which opposes the new regulations. House-Senate negotiators trying to resolve legislation to fund the Labor Department and other agencies will have difficulty allowing the proposed overtime changes to go forward, lawmakers said.
Yesterday's vote highlights congressional Republicans' growing unease over the economy, and their increasing willingness to defy the White House on contentious issues. Seven Republicans switched their votes yesterday after supporting the GOP leadership position in a July roll call.
