Lawmakers Rush to Pass Final Spending Package to Prevent Government Shutdown
Lawmakers in Washington D.C. are working tirelessly to pass the final spending package needed for the current budget year in order to set funding for federal agencies and prevent a government shutdown in the fall. The $1.2 trillion measure combines six annual spending bills, with over 70% of the funds allocated for defense.
The House and Senate are expected to vote on the bill under a streamlined process that requires two-thirds support for approval. If a funding deadline is missed, the impact would be minimal as most federal workers are off duty over the weekend.
It took lawmakers six months to reach this point in the process due to conservative demands for policy mandates and spending cuts, leading to several short-term funding bills along the way. The bill includes a 3% increase in defense spending and a 5.2% pay raise for service members. Additionally, it funds departments such as Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Labor.
Republicans and Democrats have differing opinions on provisions related to Israel, border policy, and relief agencies in Gaza. However, the bill largely follows an agreement reached in May 2023 between former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the White House to restrict spending and suspend the debt ceiling.
Both parties have expressed frustration with the lengthy process and the final outcome, as some Republicans were seeking more policy mandates and spending cuts. A former White House official estimates that last year’s agreement will save the federal government about $1 trillion over the next decade.
In conclusion, lawmakers are racing against the clock to pass the final spending package to ensure the government remains funded and operational in the coming months.
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