New Spending Bill Emerges as Deadline Approaches for Congress

House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole indicated on Wednesday that Congress may need to pass a new short-term spending deal, known as a continuing resolution (CR), as the current funding measure approaches its expiration date. The existing CR, which was approved by the House on September 19, is set to expire on November 21, 2023. The ongoing government shutdown, now in its 22nd day, has hindered the Appropriations Committee’s ability to finalize the 12 appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026.

Cole emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We would need another CR because we’ve wasted, so far, four weeks of this one.” He expressed hope that if negotiations resume promptly after the shutdown ends, significant progress could still be made. Nevertheless, he cautioned that “every day we delay pushes that further out,” highlighting the constraints lawmakers face as the deadline looms.

The current predicament underscores the challenges Congress is confronting as it attempts to reach a consensus on government funding amidst widening political divides. This stalemate is not only delaying crucial appropriations but also affecting other legislative processes, such as the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, which is currently tied up in legal disputes due to delays by Speaker Mike Johnson.

Republicans are weighing their options, including the potential for another short-term CR or a longer-term solution. Speaker Johnson has acknowledged the complexities involved but has not committed to a long-term CR or a full-year CR, citing the difficulties of completing all appropriations on time due to the ongoing shutdown. Rep. Mike Simpson, chairman of the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, echoed concerns about the necessity of another CR, pointing out the time lost in negotiations.

Simpson expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of a year-long CR, noting potential opposition from members of his party who may be reluctant to endorse a budget aligned with the final year of the Biden administration’s spending plan. This reluctance reflects a broader hesitation among Republicans to extend funding based on a budget with which they do not fully agree.

Fiscal conservatives within the party are advocating for a longer-term CR to help limit spending and avoid contentious votes during the holiday season. Cole acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding this issue, emphasizing the need to present a well-vetted, bipartisan bill to prevent lawmakers from feeling pressured during the festive period.

On the Democratic side, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries is actively promoting a bipartisan spending agreement. He insists that Republicans must “come to the table” for negotiations regarding another CR. This stance highlights the contrasting approaches of the two parties, with Democrats pushing for a fully functioning government and a collaborative negotiation process.

The implications of these negotiations extend beyond party lines. Decisions made in the coming weeks will significantly impact federal funding, the operation of government agencies, and the overall economic stability of the nation. As the deadline draws near, the urgency for a collaborative approach becomes critical to ensuring government operations can continue effectively and meet the needs of the public.

As Congress grapples with these pressing challenges, the political landscape remains charged. The ability of lawmakers to reach a consensus will determine not only the immediate budgetary framework but also the longer-term implications for government efficiency and public trust. The ongoing negotiations will be crucial in shaping the path forward for federal funding and governance.