Republicans want a guarantee of reforms at the agency before they will commit the money. Republicans object to providing federal funding to family planning agencies that offer information about overseas abortions. Democrats and the White House support the funding. Republicans want to prevent the Census Bureau from using statistical sampling during the 2000 census, rather than relying on a actual count of the American people. Democrats say statistical sampling would provide a more accurate head count of minorities and the poor, who tend to vote Democratic.
Republicans contend sampling is unconstitutional.
Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, R-Mississippi, said he believes a budget agreement can be reached by Monday or Tuesday, which would allow Congress to adjourn. But it's been very slow in trying to get the administration to really meet with us and wrap it up. Inc. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines .