Senate leaders are eyeing a final vote on the fiscal 2024 spending package ahead of a Friday night deadline, but must overcome resistance from Republicans who are seeking last-minute amendments.
The House passed the six-bill minibus Wednesday afternoon with overwhelming bipartisan support. Senate leaders planned a vote to advance the bill on a procedural motion in the evening but ultimately punted as GOP senators demanded changes, including the elimination of earmarks.
Final passage of the $459 billion measure would avoid a lapse in funding for the Department of Energy, the Department of the Interior, EPA and a host of other agencies starting this weekend.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) moved to wind down debate on the spending package Wednesday evening. Absent an agreement on amendments or time, the Senate won’t be scheduled to vote until Friday.
