U.S. House GOP Readies Stopgap Bill to Prevent Shutdown

Republican leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives plan to vote on a six-month stopgap funding bill to avert a partial government shutdown. Though the bill extends previously approved government funding, it reduces overall spending by $7 billion, particularly in non-defense areas, while boosting defense allocations.

In a bid to prevent a partial government shutdown, Republican leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives are gearing up for a crucial vote on a six-month stopgap funding bill. The temporary funding measure, often referred to as a 'continuing resolution' or CR, is designed to extend government finances through October 31, coinciding with the end of the current fiscal year.

The proposed legislation seeks to cut spending by approximately $7 billion from fiscal year 2024 levels. While $13 billion in non-defense discretionary funding sees cuts, the bill outlines an increase of $6 billion in defense spending. This boost includes a pay raise for junior military members and funds allocated for warship construction and other essential equipment.

Not included in this process is the mandatory spending for vital programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, alongside the costs of servicing the national debt, which exceed $1 trillion annually. The Republicans aim to incorporate additional spending cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency in future fiscal appropriations.

(With inputs from agencies.)