Poli Alert Political & Civics
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Jimmy Williams
In a 75-22 vote, the Senate approved a six-bill funding package, totaling $459 billion, just in time to prevent a partial government shutdown after midnight. The legislation addresses budgets for various federal departments and independent agencies, including those handling transportation, energy, housing, agriculture, and veterans programs. The bipartisan passage marks Congress’ first successful government funding for the fiscal year, coming more than five months into it.
This move follows intense debates over Republican amendments, some of which were voted on and failed. The bill’s approval means averted budget issues for over a dozen federal entities. However, attention now turns to a more substantial spending package, covering around 70% of the government, including military and health, education, and labor programs. This larger bundle must be finalized by March 22 to prevent another potential shutdown.
Senator Patty Murray, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, expressed confidence in passing the remaining funding bills, emphasizing the importance of avoiding far-right extremism in negotiations.
The bill approved on Friday secured over $900 million in earmarks, allowing lawmakers to direct federal funding toward specific projects in their districts. While Republicans view this as a way to ensure worthwhile projects in their states, Democrats worry about potential politicization of fund allocation.
The upcoming fiscal year’s government funding cycle is set to begin with President Biden unveiling his fiscal 2025 budget proposal. Lawmakers aim to finalize the fiscal 2024 spending bills before March 22, acknowledging challenges in measures such as those funding the Department of Homeland Security and major health, labor, and education programs.
The negotiations have placed Speaker Mike Johnson in a position to secure conservative wins despite having limited leverage against a Democratic-controlled Senate and White House. Despite some conservative discontent, Johnson is unlikely to face challenges to his leadership.
The funding package adheres to spending limits set under previous agreements, with non-defense funding levels essentially remaining flat. The bills awaiting President Biden’s signature cover various departments, including the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration, military construction projects, and the departments of Commerce, Interior, and Justice.
