House to vote on slimmed-down bill for border

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans are heading toward a vote Thursday on a slimmed-down bill to address the immigration crisis on the border by sending in National Guard troops and speeding unaccompanied migrant youths back to Central America.

The bill will cost $659 million through the end of this fiscal year, far smaller than the $3.7 billion requested by President Barack Obama. Lawmakers leaving a meeting on the issue Tuesday morning said the bill appeared to enjoy widespread support, although some conservatives said they remained opposed.

Lawmakers said it was important to act this week before Congress adjourns for its annual August recess.

Rep. Blake Farenthold, R-Texas, predicted the legislation would pass with broad GOP support.