House Democrats are pushing a budget plan that would raise the statutory spending caps on fiscal years 2020 and 2021. The legislation – not an official budget resolution – would allow for $733 billion in defense spending.
“[W]e will bring responsible governing back to the budget process, avoid uncertainty and the unrelenting threats of a government shutdown, and meet our obligations to the American people,” House Budget Committee Chairman John Yarmuth (D-Ky.) said in a press release announcing that the committee will consider the legislation Wednesday.
The president requested $750 billion for defense, but to avoid the spending caps, the administration’s plan would overfund the overseas contingency operations account, which is not subject to the caps.
The White House has resisted finding a deal to raise the limits, as On Base has reported.
“Historically, caps deals have been bipartisan, bicameral, supported by the White House and offset with mandatory savings,” Rep. Steve Womack (R-Ark.), the committee’s top Republican, said in a statement. “It is my hope that House Democrats figure this out soon.”
The Senate Budget Committee passed a budget blueprint that would cut more than $100 billion off the administration’s request for defense spending.
Rep. Steve Womack (left). Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Matthew Matlock
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