Washington D.C. –
One of the most crucial responsibilities of Congress is to ensure the government is funded effectively. However, this year, Congress has faced significant challenges in meeting this obligation. Senator Katie Britt, in a recent address on the Senate floor, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in passing appropriations bills and the apparent disregard from Senate Democrats.
In the last month, Britt joined Republican colleagues in urging Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to bring bipartisan committee-approved appropriations bills to the floor for debate and voting. Notably, they called for immediate consideration of the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and the FY25 Defense Appropriations Act.
Despite their appeals, Britt stated that their requests went unheard, highlighting that the Senate had ample time in August and September to debate these critical bills. She emphasized that without Schumer’s leadership in allowing these bills to proceed, vital resources for service members and veterans remain stalled.
Britt outlined the expected process for government funding, which includes the President submitting a budget by the first Monday in February, followed by congressional hearings, the drafting of appropriations bills, and a structured review process in both chambers. Unfortunately, this structured approach has not been followed in recent years, with the last successful passage of all 12 appropriations bills on time occurring in Fiscal Year 1997.
As of now, the Senate Appropriations Committee has advanced 11 out of 12 bills. However, there is concern that under the current Democratic majority, these bills may not be considered individually anytime soon. Britt pointed out that all proposed bills received strong bipartisan support, with six passing unanimously, yet they remain sidelined.
Britt expressed a commitment to advancing these appropriations bills, stating they are essential for national defense, military training, community support, and investments in the future. Instead of facilitating progress, she criticized the Democratic majority for postponing action, which could lead to an omnibus bill in December—an outcome that would reduce opportunities for debate, diminish transparency, and potentially increase irresponsible spending.
Highlighting the importance of returning to a functional governance model, Britt called on Schumer to prioritize the passage of these appropriations bills, stating that it is what the American people expect and deserve. She reiterated her dedication to ensuring these critical funding measures are finalized, underscoring their significance for Alabama and national interests.
