Obama signs 2011 budget deal into law

Obama caught on open micSTORY HIGHLIGHTSPresident Obama signs the spending deal covering the rest of the current fiscal yearThe deal includes spending reductions totalling $38.5 billionThe measure passed both houses of Congress on ThursdayPolitical leaders are now turning their attention to the debt ceiling and the fiscal year 2012 budget Washington (CNN) -- President Barack Obama signed the budget agreement covering federal spending for the remainder of the current fiscal year on Friday, bringing an end to any remaining fears of a government shutdown.

The bipartisan deal, which won approval Thursday from both the House and Senate, cuts $38.5 billion in spending while funding the government through September 30.

In a White House statement, Obama expressed his objection to two sections of the agreement, which prohibit the use of funds to transfer Guantanamo detainees into the United States and to move detainees into the custody of foreign countries unless specific conditions are met.

"Despite my continued strong objection to these provisions, I have signed this act because of the importance of avoiding a lapse in appropriations for the federal government, including our military activities, for the remainder of fiscal year 2011," the president said.

"Nevertheless, my administration will work with the Congress to seek repeal of these restrictions, will seek to mitigate their effects, and will oppose any attempt to extend or expand them in the future."

View the Original article