Congress Passes CR; Pushes Deadline to December 20

Last week, Congress passed a continuing resolution (CR) to push the budget deadline of September 30 to December 20, allowing members to depart for the campaign trail in October. The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act (H.R. 9747) extended current fiscal year (FY) 2024 spending levels for the twelve-week interim. As previously reported by COSSA, the House attempted to attach the CR to a bill seeking to require proof of U.S. citizenship to vote during federal elections that did not receive support. With the deadline pushed to after the elections, it’s unclear whether Congress will return ready to draft the final appropriations bills or seek a second CR to allow for the new Congressional session to take the helm. While both chambers have signaled intention to pass the FY 2025 appropriations bills without a second CR, the appropriations process largely hinges on the outcome of the elections this November.

Simultaneously in the House, the Committee on House Administration announced a new artificial intelligence (AI) policy for the House of Representatives to build upon as AI continues to advance. The policy details three directives for the House, including a process for the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to review and approve the use of AI tools, outlines the accepted uses of AI, and provides a foundation for members to use AI responsibly. The committee expects the policy to develop alongside AI technology.

Stay tuned to COSSA’s continued coverage of Congressional news.