Congress is anticipated to give rapid approval on Wednesday to a short-term spending bill to sustain federal agencies when the new fiscal year starts next week, preventing a potential shutdown crisis just before the November 5 election. The temporary bill is set to fund agencies at current levels until December 20, with an additional $231 million allocated to support the Secret Service following two assassination attempts against Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump. Furthermore, funds were earmarked to assist with the presidential transition, among other allocations.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., described the measure as addressing “only what’s absolutely necessary,” particularly aimed at members of his own conference who are wary about spending levels. Nevertheless, some Republicans are not in favor of the bill, prompting House GOP leadership to rely on Democratic votes for approval, as it requires two-thirds support from voting members. Johnson emphasized that a government shutdown is the only alternative to the continuing resolution at this point.
Once passed in the House, the temporary funding bill will advance to the Senate for final approval. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., confirmed a swift passage agreement late Wednesday, emphasizing the importance of eliminating brinkmanship and delays in legislative processes. Lawmakers in both chambers are eager to return to their constituencies for campaigning, facilitating the passage of the temporary funding resolution, although more challenging fiscal negotiations are anticipated towards the year-end.
The temporary bill defers a final decision on full-year spending levels by three months, leaving unresolved debates over spending for defense and nondefense programs. While the Senate plans to exceed the projected 1% increase, House Republicans advocate for significant cuts to nondefense programs, complicating the chances of reaching a compromise. Pending a final agreement, the temporary bill is primarily aimed at maintaining current funding levels, with exceptions such as the enhanced funding for the Secret Service.
The $231 million designated for the Secret Service comes with conditions tied to compliance with congressional oversight, enabling the agency to expedite spending if necessary. Following recent security lapses during an incident at a Trump rally, where a gunman fired from an unsecured location, the Secret Service emphasized immediate needs and ongoing discussions with Congress for additional support.
The urgency for a continuing resolution arises from the incomplete progress on the annual appropriations bills that finance various federal government sectors. Although the House has passed five out of twelve bills along party lines, the Senate is yet to pass any. While the temporary bill is currently under consideration, Johnson conveyed reluctance towards supporting a comprehensive omnibus bill post the December 20 deadline, suggesting another temporary extension may be required for the new administration and Congress to determine spending levels for the fiscal year 2025.
