Lawmakers in Washington have unveiled a $174 billion spending package aimed at preventing a government shutdown when the Jan 30 deadline arrives. The bill combines three of the 12 annual spending measures: commerce, justice, and science agencies; energy and water development; and interior and environmental agencies.
Bipartisan Support Signals Progress
Senior Republicans and Democrats praised the legislation, which emerged from talks between the House and Senate Appropriations Committees.
House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole highlighted the bill’s focus on public safety, reliable energy, and community infrastructure. Rep. Rosa DeLauro emphasized that the bill avoids drastic cuts to public services and contains no “poison pill” provisions. House Speaker Mike Johnson framed the bill as a fiscally responsible alternative to a larger omnibus package.
Some conservative lawmakers are reviewing the legislation. House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris noted that the bill seems to keep discretionary spending below last year’s level, a step toward controlling federal debt.
Funding Priorities in the $174B Bill
- Commerce and Justice Agencies: About $78 billion for NASA, the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and Bureau of Prisons.
- Energy and Water Development: Over $58 billion, including $25 billion for nuclear defense and energy modernization.
- Interior and Environment: More than $38 billion for the Interior Department, Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Forest Service, and related programs.
The package also includes roughly $3 billion in earmarks for community-specific projects.
Senate Cooperation and Next Steps
Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, expressed readiness to advance the package, signaling bipartisan cooperation. However, the bill covers only half of the annual spending measures, leaving defense and other controversial bills for later.
Sen. Patty Murray praised the proposal for restoring Congress’ control over federal spending, a contrast to past influence from the Trump administration and the Office of Management and Budget. If passed by both chambers, six of the 12 funding bills would be completed, reducing the risk of another shutdown.
