From: CNN White House Correspondent Eileen O'Connor and Capitol Hill Producer Mike Roselli
In: Washington
Posted: 5-6-97

Budget Pact Could Be Law By Memorial Day

Staff at the National Economic Council met late into the night on Monday with congressional staffers to iron out details for the balanced budget resolution. They feel there is a "lot of work to be done, " but that an agreement by Memorial Day is certainly "doable."

The big numbers are on paper they say, including some line items that the White House will insist on. No details on that are forthcoming. An official statement on timing will not be issued, as President Bill Clinton is in Mexico.

Meanwhile, the Republican leaders met Tuesday with key committee chairmen to discuss the schedule. They say once the proposal is voted on, they want other specific aspects of the plan considered before the July 4 break.

House Speaker Newt Gingrich says passing the entitlements package and tax cuts would "give the American people a birthday gift for the Fourth of July."