Congress Returns from July Recess

As previously reported, consideration of the fiscal year (FY) 2027 appropriations bills slowed as Congress left Washington for a two-week July 4th recess. While the House managed to advance all twelve of its bills through committee, the Senate has repeatedly delayed their consideration of several bills, including the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) appropriations bill that funds the National Science Foundation. Complicating things further, Senate Republicans’ dwindling majority worsened following the unexpected death of Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and the continued hospitalization of Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY). While the Senate Republicans had reportedly drafted their bills without the input or support of the Senate Democrats, it is unclear if they have the support they need to advance their more controversial appropriations bills out of committee—including the CJS and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education (LHHS) bills. With only a few weeks left until August recess and the end of the fiscal year quickly approaching on September 30, Congress will soon need to turn to a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the federal government if they’re unable to pass any final legislation in the upcoming weeks.

Stay tuned for COSSA’s continued coverage of the FY 2027 appropriations process.