Republican sponsors insisted that if all three were eliminated, it would save $1.8 billion.
Republican sponsors of the proposal said the new subcommittees would greatly improve lawmakers' ability to obtain digest information because the staffs for the first time would have access to it.
Republican sponsors of the leading flat-tax proposal are divided on the subject.
Republican sponsors contend the bill would reduce abusive and frivolous suits; most Democrats say its main effect will be to inhibit citizens from seeking redress from corporations.
Republican sponsors of the current bill hurriedly conferred about how they might reduce the scope of the legislation to attract the 60 votes needed to end debate.
Republican sponsors of the spending restraints dispute the predictions of cost-shifting.
Republican sponsors of welfare reform were satisfied to let states do pretty much as they pleased with block grants.
One of the proposed amendment's two Republican sponsors, John Rooney of Bergen County, denounced the high court's August ruling as a "gross error."
Republican sponsors said they would put the motion up for a vote only if at least five Democrats backed the plan.
Republican sponsors believe that they have 65 sure supporters, all 55 Republicans and 10 Democrats.