WASHINGTON, Oct. 3 (UPI) -- The House has reversed course and voted to oppose the White House's efforts to rewrite overtime pay rules.
The Thursday action marked a significant victory for Democrats and labor leaders, the Washington Post said. Opponents had contended the Bush administration's plans would deny overtime benefits to millions of employees when they work more than 40 hours a week.
While the 221-203 vote is not binding, it essentially overturns earlier House approval and puts the chamber on record as supporting the Senate, which opposes the new regulations. It also highlights congressional Republicans' growing unease over the economy and their increasing willingness to defy the White House on contentious issues. Seven Republicans switched their votes after supporting the GOP leadership position in a July roll call.
The administration is seeking to revamp 1938 labor rules by expanding overtime protections for low-wage workers while making it easier for employers to exempt many higher-paid workers.
