A top senator says Barack Obama's Democratic allies in Congress have sealed agreement on a budget outline for next year that endorses the president's goals of expanded health care and more money for education and clean energy.

The agreement announced late Monday by Senate Budget Committee
Chairman Kent Conrad would make it easier for Congress to pass
subsequent legislation overhauling the U.S. health care system and
advance other Obama goals.

The North Dakota Democrat forced some cuts in Obama's domestic agenda in an effort to drive down the deficit, and congressional
Democrats opted not to extend Obama's $400 tax cut for most workers
after it expires next year.

The budget is nonbinding but sets outlines for follow-up
legislation.