WASHINGTON – House Republicans are set to release a stopgap spending measure on Saturday. This move aims to prevent a partial government shutdown by maintaining federal agency operations. The current funding is scheduled to lapse next Friday.
A source, requesting anonymity, indicated that the timing and details of the continuing resolution (CR) are subject to change. The nature of the measure remains uncertain.
Speaker Mike Johnson has been negotiating with his 221-212 Republican majority. These discussions revolve around multiple CR options. Both the Republican-dominated House and the Democratic-controlled Senate need to agree on a solution. President Joe Biden must sign the agreed measure into law by Nov. 17 to avoid funding expiration.
With the threat of a shutdown looming, certain Republicans advocate for a straightforward CR. This would extend to mid-January, excluding spending cuts or conservative policies opposed by Democrats.
In contrast, some conservative members are pushing for a CR that includes spending reductions. Their version also calls for policies like enhanced U.S.-Mexico border security. They propose a unique structure with varied deadlines across different federal budget sections.
There is a growing concern among lawmakers that an extended partisan dispute over the stopgap measure could lead to a shutdown.
Amidst the deliberations in the House, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer initiated a process to advance an alternative stopgap measure.
(Based on Report by David Morgan/Reuters)