Scalise reveals post-shutdown GOP battle plan as House readies for intense new schedule
Following a 42-day government shutdown, House GOP leaders, led by Majority Leader Steve Scalise, are set to accelerate their legislative agenda to compensate for lost time. The House will adopt a five-day legislative week and extend session hours to pass key bills, including measures to ease restrictions on liquefied natural gas and enhance refining capacity amid rising energy costs. As Congress faces numerous pressing priorities, including the National Defense Authorization Act and a new Farm Bill, Scalise expressed optimism about garnering support for a bipartisan bill to end the shutdown, which is essential for progressing on these critical legislative items.
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The House's accelerated schedule aims to address the backlog of bills that were set for discussion in October but were delayed due to the shutdown.
Key legislation to be prioritized includes one that mandates pre-trial detention for violent crime defendants in D.C. and another that seeks to remove local regulations hindering the Metropolitan Police Department.
Lawmakers are expected to work into the evenings, breaking from the traditional schedule to expedite the legislative process during this critical time.
The House's plan to pass a bill ending the government shutdown includes a January 30 deadline for the majority of FY 2026 federal spending, authorizing funding for three essential annual spending bills.
Scalise indicated that there are nine remaining spending bills that the House aims to finalize soon, requiring intensive efforts from the Appropriations Committee.
Negotiations are ongoing for a bipartisan agreement on the National Defense Authorization Act, with Scalise noting progress in talks.
The upcoming legislative agenda also includes a Farm Bill and a highway bill, both crucial for addressing agricultural priorities and infrastructure needs across the U.S.