WASHINGTON (AP) — The funding lapse for the Department of Homeland Security will likely extend into next week as the House considers passing a Senate-approved plan rejected previously that funds most of the agency, excluding immigration enforcement operations.
This standoff has lasted 48 days, with both chambers meeting briefly but failing to resolve the deadlock. However, Republican leaders and President Trump are now aligned in supporting a funding plan that could potentially break the deadlock.
During their brief meetings, Senate Majority Leader John Thune set aside a House proposal to fund DHS for 60 days and acknowledged that the House may eventually consider the bipartisan Senate plan worked out with Democrats.
House Republicans are expected to hold a conference call to discuss the next steps regarding potential funding resolutions.
Even with the bipartisan agreement, the legislation’s success is uncertain as conservative factions within the GOP may resist compromises surrounding immigration enforcement funding.
We need to kind of move with haste, Thune expressed, indicating the necessity of swift action to avoid complications. As the government shutdown persists, the ramifications extend to TSA agents and travelers, heightening urgency for a resolution.
