LAS VEGAS, NV – President Joe Biden signed into law a $1.2 trillion legislation over the weekend, completing the funding of federal agencies through the fiscal year that ends on September 30. This move came after the House passed the package on Friday and the Senate followed suit early Saturday morning. The bill addresses critical government operations, including the departments of Defense, Homeland Security, Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, State, and the legislative branch.
Biden, who had the bill delivered to him in Wilmington, Delaware, on Saturday, described the package as a “compromise,” emphasizing that it is “good news for the American people.” The president highlighted that the agreement represents a middle ground that does not fully satisfy either side, rejecting extreme cuts proposed by House Republicans while investing in essential areas such as child care, cancer research, and mental health.
In addition, Biden praised the final package for including resources to secure the border, which his administration had fought for. He seized the opportunity to urge Congress to pass additional legislation, stressing that their work is not yet complete. Specifically, he called on the House to pass the bipartisan national security supplemental to advance national security interests and for both chambers to approve the bipartisan border security bill negotiated by his administration – labeling it as the toughest and fairest reforms in decades.
The signing of this legislation marks a significant moment on Capitol Hill, as it marks the conclusion of an annual appropriations process marked by partisan disagreements and a historic change of leadership in the House. This legislation is the second part of a two-tiered government funding process, with a separate six-bill funding package already signed into law earlier this month, covering various departments and federal programs. Furthermore, the effort to pass this funding bill has been a cumbersome process, characterized by policy disagreements and leadership changes.
Overall, the approval of this funding bill signifies a step towards stabilizing government operations and providing essential resources to key departments. Biden’s signature on the legislation signals progress in meeting federal budget obligations and ensuring the functioning of critical government agencies. The ongoing efforts to secure bipartisan support for additional legislation demonstrate the administration’s commitment to addressing pressing national security and border security issues.