The US House of Representatives has passed a bundle of six spending bills in an effort to avert a looming shutdown, according to The Hill. The legislation, known as a “minibus,” received bipartisan support, with 339-85 votes in favor, backed by 207 Democrats and 132 Republicans. This comprehensive package, spanning over 1,050 pages, allocates more than $450 billion to various departments, including Veterans Affairs, agriculture, transportation, and justice, among others.
Following its approval in the House, the bill now moves to the Senate, where Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated a vote will take place this week to ensure timely funding for crucial departments before the looming deadline on Friday. The successful passage marks a significant step in the appropriations process for fiscal 2024, though challenges lie ahead with the remaining six government funding bills, including those for Defense, Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services, due on March 22.
House Speaker Mike Johnson hailed the passage of the package as a departure from the traditional “omnibus fever” in Washington, emphasizing the importance of breaking away from all-encompassing spending measures. The legislation also includes several provisions championed by GOP leadership, such as cuts to nondefense funds and funding for combating fentanyl.
However, the bill has faced criticism from some Democrats over concessions made on GOP-backed provisions, particularly regarding veterans’ rights to purchase firearms. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact on veterans’ mental health and suicide rates.
Despite these challenges, the passage of the spending package represents progress in Congress’s efforts to prevent a partial shutdown and allocate funds for critical government programs.