ABC News - What’s in the government funding bill?
The recently signed funding bill by President Biden ensures the government remains operational until March, providing relief to federal workers and military personnel by preventing pay interruptions. The bill includes $100 billion in disaster aid for areas affected by fires and storms, a one-year extension of the federal Farm Bill, and $1 billion in direct assistance to farmers. However, it excludes several policies that were under negotiation for months, such as vocational training, substance abuse treatment, rural broadband protections, and proposals related to China. These omissions were influenced by Elon Musk's opposition, leading to criticism from Democrats and some Republicans questioning the influence of wealthy individuals on legislation. The situation highlights potential challenges for President-elect Trump in passing his agenda, given the slim margins in Congress.
Key Points:
- The funding bill keeps the government running until March, preventing pay interruptions for federal workers and military personnel.
- It includes $100 billion in disaster aid and $1 billion in direct assistance to farmers.
- Several negotiated policies, including vocational training and rural broadband protections, were omitted due to Elon Musk's opposition.
- Democrats criticized Republicans for allowing Musk's influence on the bill, raising concerns about wealthy individuals' sway over legislation.
- The situation foreshadows challenges for President-elect Trump in passing his agenda due to slim congressional margins.