Congressional leaders are on the verge of revealing a spending agreement that will maintain federal government funding until March 14 and allocate over $100 billion in emergency aid to assist states and local communities in recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as other natural disasters.
The proposed stopgap measure aims to avert a partial government shutdown scheduled to commence after midnight on Friday. It would defer final decisions on this year's budgetary allocations to the incoming Republican-led Congress and President-elect Donald Trump. The continuing resolution is set to sustain current spending levels for government agencies.
This legislation represents one of the last items on lawmakers' agenda this week before they adjourn for the holidays, paving the way for the new Congress. It marks the second short-term funding measure considered this fall as legislators grappled with passing the twelve annual appropriations bills before the start of the new fiscal year on October 1.
Although the text of the bill was not yet available on Tuesday, House Republican members disclosed that the disaster aid package would total approximately $100 billion, with an additional $10 billion earmarked for economic assistance to farmers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the importance of aiding those facing dire circumstances, acknowledging the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. While the allocated aid may fall short of some lawmakers' expectations, Johnson hinted at the possibility of additional assistance in the upcoming Congress, citing limitations on immediate action.
President Joe Biden had requested around $114 billion in disaster relief, initially submitting a $99 billion proposal in November, citing the urgent need for funding. The administration later expanded its request to encompass funding for repairing federal facilities damaged by natural disasters.
As is customary, Congress is anticipated to act just before the impending shutdown deadline. House Republicans typically allow a 72-hour review period for the bill's text, potentially leading to a final vote on Friday. The Senate, known for its deliberative pace, is also eager to conclude proceedings for the year and make way for the incoming Congress.
While Johnson expressed hope for the bill's text to be released later on Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer noted ongoing negotiations between both parties, underscoring the urgency of reaching a swift agreement before the December 20th deadline.
