The House Budget Committee has advanced Donald Trump’s tax and spending cuts bill, which faced significant hurdles just days prior. In a narrow vote of 17-16, with four Republicans opting to vote present, the bill is set to move to the House Rules Committee for further consideration. A vote in this committee is anticipated to occur midweek.
This development follows a previous failed attempt to pass the bill when hardline conservatives expressed dissatisfaction over certain provisions related to Medicaid and tax credits. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that Republicans might expedite the implementation of work requirements for Medicaid recipients to gain the support of these GOP hardliners, a critical factor for the legislation.
Johnson communicated that “minor modifications” have been made to the bill, and discussions within the caucus will continue over the coming days to address remaining concerns. “I’m looking forward to very thoughtful discussions, very productive discussions over the next few days,” he stated confidently, expressing that he believes the measure will ultimately pass by the GOP’s Memorial Day deadline.
House Budget Committee Chair Jodey Arrington noted that deliberations will persist into the week, maintaining an optimistic outlook as they prepare to present the bill on the House floor.
This move underlines the ongoing efforts within the GOP to streamline the legislative process amidst internal disagreements, aiming to align party members and achieve consensus on significant fiscal policy.