House Republicans reportedly have proposed a funding package to avert a government shutdown, requiring Democratic backing to pass. The plan extends funding until March 14, includes a one-year 2018 Farm Bill extension, and allocates $110 billion for disaster aid ($21 billion ag disaster and $10 billion farmer aid). Notably, it excludes a debt limit measure supported by President-elect Donald Trump.
The bill will be considered under suspension of the rules, which will require a two-thirds majority for passage. One vote, one bill.
With less than 9 hours until the shutdown deadline, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) presented the package as one of two options to GOP members, who voted to move forward.
Democrats, awaiting full details, have not committed support. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) consulted with swing-district lawmakers to gauge pressure for a bipartisan deal.
Says one Washington contact: “Dems would look pretty bad not voting to keep government running, not to provide disaster aid, including farmer aid, and saying no to a farm bill extension.”