Until now, some EU nations had no legal definition of terrorism, or specific anti-terrorism legislation, meaning terrorist groups could evade controls by moving around the 15-nation bloc which has largely abolished internal border controls.

CNN: EU names terror groups

He argued that made the bill "hybrid" legislation - meaning it made reference to local issues as well as dealing with the UK-wide system - and wanted parliamentary clerks known as "the Examiners" to study the proposals.

BBC: Peers' threat to AV voting reform referendum defeated

Several experts have said that 2007 is a litmus-test year for energy and climate change legislation, meaning that real overhaul would come after the 2008 elections in the event that Democrats win both the White House and Congress.

FORBES: Wait And See

MPs were given a free vote on same-sex marriage legislation in the Commons last week, meaning that they were allowed to vote according to their consciences and did not face sanctions for taking an opposing view to their party leaders.

BBC: David Jones

Like the bills in other states, this bill exempts public safety workers such as police and firefighters, meaning the primary target of the legislation are the teachers.

FORBES: Oklahoma Bill Strips Municipal Employees of Collective Bargaining Rights

The House of Representatives late yesterday evening approved the fiscal cliff deal already passed in the Senate, meaning President Obama will soon sign the legislation into law.

FORBES: Fiscal Cliff: With Crisis Averted For Now, Investors Can Briefly Rejoice

The Troubled Asset Relief Program expires Sunday, meaning the Treasury Secretary can commit no more funds from the bailout legislation Congress passed two years ago.

FORBES: Goodbye To TARP, But Good Riddance?