Lawmakers are set to return to Capitol Hill on September 9 after a monthlong recess, with a packed agenda and limited time. One of their top priorities is passing a bill to fund the government before the September 30 deadline. However, there is a dispute over voting rights that may prevent the bill from passing.
Congress is likely to miss the deadline for passing its regular funding bills for Fiscal Year 2025, which means they will need to pass a temporary funding bill called a “continuing resolution” (CR). The composition of this CR is causing division among lawmakers. Republicans want to include the ”SAVE Act,” which requires voters to provide proof of citizenship during registration. Democrats oppose this measure, arguing that it could disenfranchise American citizens.
The House of Representatives has already passed the SAVE Act, but Senate Democrats are unlikely to accept it in the CR. This disagreement raises concerns about a potential government shutdown if Congress fails to pass a bill by September 30.
In addition to funding issues, lawmakers will also focus on addressing China-related matters. The House plans to consider over 30 bills aimed at countering threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). These bills cover various topics such as trade secrets protection and critical infrastructure security.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an annual Pentagon blueprint, is another important item on Congress’s agenda. Partisan riders attached to this bill could slow down its passage as lawmakers debate issues like abortion and gender transitioning.
Congress will also work on renewing the Farm Bill, which funds land conservation projects and sets national agriculture policies. Controversies surrounding issues like SNAP benefits and farm subsidies distribution have made this renewal process contentious between Democrats and Republicans.
Lastly, there is concern about a $15 billion budget shortfall in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). House Republicans have introduced legislation allocating funds for pensions and compensation costs but addressing rising medical expenses remains uncertain.
As lawmakers return from recess, they face tight deadlines and significant challenges in accomplishing their legislative goals before election season takes full swing.