When Congress returns from their summer break, they have three weeks to resolve government funding before it expires on Sept. 30. House Speaker Mike Johnson proposed extending funding until next March to avoid a shutdown or spending fight before the election. Johnson also wants to pass a bill requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote, which President Biden opposes. The bill passed the House but faces challenges in the Senate. Senate Republicans and Democrats are wary of attaching voting legislation to funding efforts, fearing complications and unwanted political battles. If a resolution is not reached, a government shutdown could occur, affecting federal agencies, employees, and services. Air traffic controllers, customs agents, and border patrol would continue working, but passport applications might halt. The airline industry and travelers could be impacted if controllers don’t receive pay or new FAA employees are not trained. Lawmakers, facing the pressure of an upcoming election, are looking for a way to avoid a shutdown and pass funding before the deadline.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
Lawmakers prepare for battle over immigrant voting bill
