With the end of the fiscal year quickly approaching, Congress will need to take action to keep the government from shutting down on October 1st. At this time, the Four Corners (the four top Appropriators in the House and Senate) have not come to an agreement on the top-line numbers necessary to start budget proceedings, and instead Congress will have to negotiate and pass a continuing resolution (CR).
As noted last week, there are obstacles to overcome in drafting a continuing resolution, particularly climate provisions promised to Senator Manchin (D-WV) and emergency funds requested by the Biden Administration. It is unclear whether the CR will originate in House or the Senate at this time.
Meanwhile, the Hill has reported that the Senate will wait until after the election in November to take up the Respect for Marriage Act; retiring Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO) is quoted acknowledging that the bill is much more likely to receive the 10 Republican votes necessary after election day has passed. The bill passed the House with 47 Republican votes.
