The Senate passed the conference report, or final version, of the $47 billion seven-year farm bill. The bill would phase out farm subsidies over the seven-year period. Senators also defeated an attempt to limit debate on an amendment offered by Senator Ted Kennedy (D-MA) that would raise the minimum wage from $4.25 per hour to $5.15 over the upcoming 15 months. Members also passed a State Department funding bill authorizing $13 billion for fiscal years 1996 and 1997. It would also re-organize some State Department agencies. The Senate also extended the government’s borrowing authority, which was set to expire at midnight the following day.

8:59AM - 9:47PM ETSenate Session