In a poignant reminder of the whipsaw-nature of the legislative process during the previous Trump term, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 appropriations process was thrown into disarray at the 11^th hour following some late-night tweets. Congress had until midnight on Friday, December 20^th to act and pass another Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government open and operating. The measure that was introduced mid-week reflected sustained bipartisan negotiations and a litany of timely priorities. In addition to extending funding until March 14^th, the original CR addressed Medicare physician reimbursement, coupled supplemental disaster relief with farm aid, dealt with Medicare extenders, and included many health and higher education provisions. The deal was derailed the following day as the incoming administration called on rank and file Republicans to reject the measure and to add in a debt ceiling increase.

The House responded by bringing a bill to the floor that contained only Republican priorities, which was roundly rejected, thus demonstrating no path forward without bipartisan support. Rather that resurrect the previous measure though, the House moved on to a third bill, the American Relief Act. This measure ultimately sailed through the House and Senate, but only included a CR until March 14^th, disaster relief and far aid, and some crucial Medicare extenders. House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole (R-OK) applauded the work to prevent a government shutdown and strengthen the Republican negotiating position on final FY 2025 spending bills.

When the 119^th Congress convenes on January 3^rd, lawmakers will need to once again work to finalize FY 2025 appropriations before the March 14^th deadlines. Simultaneously, the House will need to begin work on the FY 2026 appropriations process. Meanwhile, the Seante will be focused on confirming appointees for key agencies and cabinet positions. It is poised to be a chaotic start to the year compounded by a White House that has often priorities that shift day-to-day and occasionally clash with a Congress that takes weeks, if not months, to negotiate key legislative items.

By: Dane Christiansen, Washington Representative