House Passes $662-Billion Defense Bill

The House has passed a massive $662 billion defense bill after last-minute changes ensured President Barack Obama's ability to prosecute terrorist suspects in the civilian justice system.

The legislation authorizes money for the men and women of the military as well as weapons systems and the millions of jobs they generate in lawmakers' districts.

It was a rare instance of bipartisanship in a bitterly divided Congress. The Senate is expected to pass the measure on tomorrow and send it to Obama.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)