Lawmakers are working diligently to pass the final spending package required for the current budget year, aiming to set funding for federal agencies and avoid a government shutdown. The House and Senate are expected to vote on a $1.2 trillion measure that consolidates six annual spending bills into one comprehensive package, with over 70% of the funds allocated to defense.
The bill is being brought up for approval under a streamlined process that necessitates two-thirds support. Despite the possibility of missing the midnight deadline for funding the government, the impact would likely be minimal over the weekend, as most federal workers are off duty and many services are already funded through previous legislation.
Lawmakers have divided this fiscal year's spending bills into two parts due to delays caused by differing priorities. The first package, which included funding for departments like Veterans Affairs and Agriculture, was passed just in time two weeks ago. The current package covers departments such as Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Labor.
The bill includes a defense spending increase of over 3% and a 5.2% pay raise for service members. Nondefense spending remains relatively flat compared to the previous year, with some agencies facing budget cuts. The total discretionary spending for the year is estimated at $1.66 trillion.
While Republicans emphasize the need to support defense and troops, Democrats highlight increases in humanitarian assistance, child care programs, and medical research funding. The bill also includes provisions related to Israel and border policy, which have sparked debate among lawmakers.
The spending aligns with an agreement reached in 2023 to restrict spending for two years and suspend the debt ceiling until January 2025. Despite frustrations over the lengthy process, lawmakers acknowledge the compromises made to reach a consensus on the spending package.
Overall, the bill reflects a balance between competing priorities and compromises to ensure essential government functions continue without interruption.
