What to expect in the upcoming spending battle in Congress

With the current government funding bill set to expire on Dec. 20, Congress has three short weeks to pass funding to avoid a shutdown and approve a defense spending bill before a new administration and lawmakers take office. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the importance of avoiding a shutdown just before Christmas. The funding extension has been in place since October to prevent a funding fight ahead of the presidential election. There is still disagreement between the two parties on the amount to spend on government programs over the next year.

In addition to government funding, Congress must also pass a National Defense Authorization Act, which has been passed every year for over six decades. The House and Senate Armed Services Committees are working on a compromise bill that adheres to the spending deal previously brokered.

President Biden has requested nearly $100 billion in emergency funding for natural disaster aid, including relief for Hurricanes Helene and Milton, wildfires in Maui, tornadoes, and a bridge collapse. Bipartisan support exists for additional aid, but disagreements may make it challenging to approve in the final weeks of the year.

During a government shutdown, essential federal workers would continue working, while nonessential workers would be sent home. Essential programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid benefits would continue, but national parks and monuments would close. Airport security and air traffic controllers would still operate, but there could be delays due to absenteeism.

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