Congress sends budget cut bill to Obama

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congress has sent President Barack Obama legislation making $38 billion in cuts from domestic programs.

The Senate vote was 81-19. It came not long after the House gave its approval, 260-167.

The bill was the product of negotiations involving the White House, House Republicans and Senate Democrats, who reached agreement last week in barely enough time to avert a threatened government shutdown.

The legislation drew support from lawmakers in both parties, but little if any enthusiasm.

Its passage closes the books on the current budget year.

It also clears the way for a broader debate about spending priorities in an era of soaring budget deficits. That struggle begins in earnest on Friday, when House Republicans are expected to approve a budget that calls for major changes in Medicare and Medicaid, as well as deep cuts elsewhere.