Under a stopgap bill passed in November to avert a government shutdown just before the holidays, Congress currently has two deadlines for funding the government, in January and February.
The first deadline is set for January 19thlawmakers are divided on next steps amid deep divisions over spending.
There are several possible ways to do this.
First, Congress may pass annual funds bill. While some Conservatives continue to hope this will happen, others have also suggested they would be open to overtaking minibuses, given how far behind they are.
“It will be.” extremely difficult All appropriations bills must be completed on time to obtain them. [top-line] number, but I don't have that number right now.” Congressman Tom Cole (Republican, Okla.).
Seven Republican-authored spending bills passed the House; So-called “maxi bus” The three bills that passed the Democratic-controlled Senate look very different.
Ultimately, leaders will need to know these final numbers and figure out how to craft bipartisan legislation that can pass both chambers.
Second, Congress could pass another stopgap funding bill.If they take this route, it will be the third Ongoing solution (CR) Passed by lawmakers since September to buy time for spending talks without triggering a government shutdown.
Democrats are firmly opposed to this line, and the Senate Minority Leader announced that before the Senate goes into year-end recess, Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said, “CR is completely unacceptable for one year.”
“This is especially devastating for our defense, and we keep fighting all these wars. So we need to reach an agreement on the top line and get results as quickly as possible,” McConnell said.
Third, some parts of the government shutdown If parliament fails to pass the bill, it will be adjourned to January 20.
under Two-tier stopgap bill Following Congress' passage last fall, lawmakers extended funding through mid-January for four of the 12 spending bills, including those for the Departments of Housing and Urban Development, Transportation and Agriculture.
Senator John Boozman Another appropriator (R-Ark.) said this before the holidays. [meet the January deadline]”
Deadlines for remaining invoices are: February 2when funding for the defense, labor, and health and human services departments may lapse.
Finally, Congress could pass an omnibus package, which Republicans vehemently oppose even as it becomes more normal.
“Ultimately, I think it will be either an omnibus or a one-year CR.” senator john kennedy (R-Louisiana), the appropriator said. “And, I, [Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.)] And his team will receive 10 Republican votes. ”
The Hill's Aris Folley has more.
