Senate GOP Struggling To Force Spending Bill Vote On Refinery, Gas Price Plans

Senate Republicans are facing roadblocks in their bid to attach a legislative package to address gas prices -- including provisions to speed permitting for refineries and other energy projects and clarify fuel economy rules -- to pending spending legislation despite a public call by President Bush for Congress to act. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) agreed May 1 to drop a controversial accounting provision from the amendment, while acknowledging that he may not be able to attach the package...