Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY.) said Thursday that the Senate will pass a short-term funding bill in order to avoid a government shutdown this week, The Hill reported.
"The House has introduced a short-term funding bill that we expect to pass before Friday night's deadline so that a final agreement can be drafted and shared with members for their review prior to its consideration next week," McConnell said from the Senate floor.
On Wednesday night, House lawmakers introduced a one-week bill to fund the federal government through May 5 and allow more time for negotiations to finalize the FY 2017 budget.
Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn (R-TX) said the Senate could pass the short-term bill as early as Thursday. However, House Democrats warned that they would oppose the short-term spending bill if Republican leaders attempt to expedite an ObamaCare repeal bill this week, according to the Hill. The threat is significant because GOP leaders will likely need Democratic votes to pass a short-term spending bill in the face of opposition from conservatives historically opposed to government funding bills.
Congress has until Friday night to approve the measure and prevent a government shutdown.
Related Links
The Hill
http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/330842-mcconnell-senate-will-pass-stopgap-funding-bill
The Hill
http://thehill.com/homenews/house/330846-dems-threaten-to-oppose-short-term-spending-bill-if-gop-pushes-healthcare-vote