Prior to departing Washington for the Memorial Day Recess, Republican leaders in both chambers delayed action on the $72 billion budget reconciliation package focused on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) funding. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) postponed Senate consideration of the legislation, following a contentious Republican Conference meeting with acting Attorney General Todd Blanche centered on the proposed $1.8 billion “anti-weaponization” fund requested by the President. The proposed fund would compensate individuals allegedly targeted by politically motivated investigations or prosecutions. The fund was established through administrative channels rather than the more traditional approach of inclusion in the reconciliation text. Several Republican Senators raised concerns regarding the structure and oversight of the fund, and indicated support for Democratic amendments targeting the fund during the anticipated “vote-a-rama.” Since the issue falls under the jurisdiction of committees specified in the reconciliation bill, Democrats would be able to force votes on related amendments at a simple-majority threshold.
This delay has further complicated an already packed legislative calendar. GOP leadership is attempting to advance the reconciliation package alongside ongoing Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) appropriations work, and ahead of the June 12 deadline for reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA). Beginning June 2, both chambers are scheduled to be in session for just 32 legislative days before the midterm elections. The above issues and delays will have an impact on the time available to advance any legislation not considered “must pass,” including the Farm Bill.
In other Farm Bill developments, Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) released a statement this week opposing the House-passed Farm Bill. In his statement, Padilla cited two primary objections, including the bill’s reductions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and a provision that would override California’s Proposition 12 animal welfare standards.
For additional information, contact Mary-Ann Warmerdam, RCRC Senior Vice President.