House GOP Unveils Controversial Plan to Avert Government Shutdown

House GOP Unveils Plan to Avert Government Shutdown

House Republicans on Friday unveiled their highly anticipated plan to avert a government shutdown that is sure to upset Democrats and has already drawn skepticism from some in the GOP. The 46-page plan would keep the government funded into March 2025 while tacking on language for stricter proof-of-citizenship requirements for voting, setting the stage for a budget showdown with Senate Democrats later this month.

"Today, House Republicans are taking a critically important step to keep the federal government funded and to secure our federal election process," Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said after the bill went up.

"Congress has a responsibility to do both, and we must ensure that only American citizens can decide American elections."

Key Features of the Proposal

• The plan pairs a continuing resolution (CR) with the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act.
• Stricter proof-of-citizenship requirements for voter registration.
• Funding is proposed to last until March 2025.

Political Implications

Democrats have fiercely opposed the bill, and the Biden administration vowed to veto it. Advocates argue that the legislation will ensure only citizens can vote in federal elections, while critics warn it will increase difficulties for eligible voters.

With Congress facing a September 30 deadline for fiscal year 2025 funding, the GOP's strategy has become a hot topic. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (Conn.) emphasized the urgency of a continuing resolution that better addresses national priorities.