Final-stage talks on budget deal put oil export ban in play

WASHINGTON (AP) – The four-decade-old ban on exporting crude oil may end up getting lifted in a must-pass year-end spending bill lawmakers are scrambling to complete. Lifting the ban is a top ask for GOP negotiators working on the sprawling legislation. In return, Democrats are seeking various environmental priorities, including making permanent tax credits for…

Official: Insufficient funds to host unaccompanied children

SAN ANTONIO (AP) – A top health official has voiced concern that too little money is available to house the unexpectedly high numbers of unaccompanied children crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. In a letter obtained by the Associated Press, Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell told members of Congress’ appropriations committee Friday that the agency…