Continuing Resolution to Keep Government Open but Leaves Year-End Legislation in Question

The House of Representatives is expected to vote today on a continuing resolution (CR) to extend government funding until December 20 and avoid a government shutdown on October 1. The bill is likely to pass due to bipartisan support. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has pledged not to support an omnibus spending bill in December, hinting at using additional stopgap measures as needed. Speaker Johnson further indicated an unwillingness to support “minibuses,” smaller bills that combine funding for some but not all areas of government. House Majority Leader Steve Scalese (R-LA) echoed the intentions of his colleague. This declaration from House leadership, and given that the 118th Congress winds down after the election, and that an end-of-year omnibus bill provides an opportunity to attach outstanding items, set the stage for a bumpy December in Washington D.C.