Image Credits: Andy Feliciotti via Unsplash
On Nov. 12, President Donald Trump signed a bill that halted the longest government shutdown in American history. This is good news for travelers, federal workers and citizens who rely on food banks. However, what was the bill that ended the shutdown? Initially, Democratic lawmakers wanted an extension on healthcare subsidies set to expire at the end of the year. These tax credits lower the cost of health coverage through the Affordable Care Act. The party prohibited a short term spending bill that didn’t include these extensions. However, the Republican Party said that this was a separate fight that was going to be discussed at another time. After much back-and-forth, the stalemate ended and a deal was made.
The bill:
Finally, after over a month, the Senate came to an agreement. Eight Democratic Senators broke after realizing that the GOP wasn’t going to compromise. The deal was that the funds of the credit would benefit three annual spending bills and extend funding to Jan. 30, the GOP promised a vote by mid December to extend the healthcare bill but there is no confirmation of this. The new bill that has now been passed includes the following; undoing the layoffs of federal workers by the Trump administration, protects future layoffs throughout January and guarantees pay. The other bill that was passed is for the Department of Agriculture, the bill includes $203.5 million to help security for lawmakers and an additional $28 million for the security of SCOTUS, without this tax credit.
With this budget now in place, what does it mean for everyday Americans? It’s unsure what will happen with healthcare premiums for millions. Senators are going to vote on a new bill in December to see where this tax credit should go in terms of healthcare. In the meantime, you can donate non-perishables to food drives whenever it is possible. Try to always keep informed of your local community to see where help is needed.
Grace Polywacz is a junior with a major in Political Science and a minor in women and gender studies Gp1029254@wcupa.edu.