Here’s the key passage in the Salazar-Alexander bill writing the ISG recommendations into law. There’s some wiggle there, but the thrust of it is that combat troops are out by the end of March (so not that much better than what the Democrats are talking about):

  • It is the sense of Congress that–
  • (1) with the implementation of the policies specified in sections 5 through 11 and the engagement in the increased diplomatic efforts specified in section 4, and as additional Iraqi brigades are being deployed, and subject to unexpected developments in the security situation on the ground, all United States combat brigades not necessary for force protection could be redeployed from Iraq by the first quarter of 2008, except for those that are essential for–
  • (A ) protecting United States and coalition personnel and infrastructure;
  • (B) training, equipping, and advising Iraqi forces;
  • (C) conducting targeted counterterrorism operations;
  • (D) search and rescue; and
  • (E) rapid reaction and special operations; and
  • (2) the redeployment should be implemented as part of a comprehensive diplomatic, political, and economic strategy that includes sustained engagement with Iraq’s neighbors and the international community for the purpose of working collectively to bring stability to Iraq.