Today, the House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a short-term spending bill, paving the way for the finalization of fiscal 2024 appropriations. The measure is now poised for consideration in the Senate. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) has indicated that the Senate could pass the bill as early as later today.

The approved short-term spending bill sets the stage for the first tranche of spending bills, which are scheduled for a House vote next Wednesday. This initial set includes critical measures such as Agriculture, Commerce-Justice-Science, Energy-Water, Interior-Environment, Military Construction-VA, and Transportation-HUD.

To avert a potential partial government shutdown, lawmakers have set a deadline of March 22 for the consideration of the second batch of bills. This subsequent package encompasses the Defense, Financial Services, Legislative Branch, Homeland Security, Labor-HHS-Education, and State-Foreign Operations measures.

Amidst these developments, it is noteworthy that House VA Committee Ranking Member Rep. Takano has recently corresponded to Secretary McDonough addressing concerns related to the Section 208 issue. As this matter unfolds, NAVREF remains committed to keeping you informed on the latest developments.