Senate Moves First on Short-Term Funding Bill

Another short-term government funding bill is becoming increasingly likely as appropriators race to finalize spending bills for fiscal year (FY) 2024. Moments ago, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) filed votes on a legislative vehicle for a continuing resolution (CR) ahead of consideration on the floor next week. This CR, which has yet to be formally released, is expected to punt funding for all 12 spending bills into March, possibly in line with the March 8 deadline to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Meanwhile, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) did not explicitly rule out putting another CR on the floor despite strong opposition from conservatives on the House Freedom Caucus. Notably, 12 House Republicans blocked passage of a rule to govern debate on three bills unrelated to government funding during yesterday’s session. GOP leadership will look to try again on this rule later today, but it remains to be seen whether conservatives are satisfied with the current spending plan to vote in favor of resuming House business.