Congress returned from the Memorial Day Recess last week, and discussions about a possible reconciliation package continued. Conversations are underway between Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) to negotiate a budget reconciliation bill, which would require only a simple majority for passage, that would meet Manchin’s demands without losing support from other Democrats.
After missing the soft deadline of Memorial Day to reach a deal for the new package, time may be running out for leaders to come to a consensus. Although technically Democrats have until September 30th to pass the bill, the month of September will be focused on must-pass legislation; with Congress in recess for the month of August, the true deadline to pass a reconciliation package is the end of July.
