Funding the Gov’t For Two Weeks & Making Temporary CHIP Funding Available (H. Joint Res. 123)

What is H. Joint Res. 123?

(Updated February 4, 2021)

This bill was enacted on December 8, 2017

This resolution would provide funding for the federal government at current levels through December 22, 2017 and prevent a partial government shutdown at midnight on December 8, 2017. It would also create a special rule allowing Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) funding from the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 (10/1/17 - 12/31/17) to be redistributed to states, commonwealths, and territories experiencing an emergency shortfall on a prorated basis.

As a joint resolution, this legislation would have to be passed by both chambers of Congress before going to President Donald Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

Argument in favor

Congress needs to pass this bill to prevent a government shutdown while lawmakers negotiate a longer term spending deal. Even a partial government shutdown should be avoided.

Argument opposed

Congress must stop relying on short-term spending deals to buy itself more time to do what already should have been done, even if it means a government shutdown.

Impact

The federal government.

Cost of H. Joint Res. 123

A CBO cost estimate is unavailable.

Additional Info

In-Depth: House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) introduced this continuing resolution to extend government funding by two weeks:

“Continuing funding for federal operations is critical to our nation’s stability, our economy, and for the well-being of the American people. It is a necessary step to ensure the programs and services that all Americans rely on are maintained and available to all. It is absolutely vital that all 12 of the regular Appropriations bills be negotiated and signed into law. This CR will allow for additional time for a deal to be reached on top-line spending levels for this fiscal year. Once this agreement is made, my Committee will rapidly go to work with the Senate to complete the final legislation.”

Media:

• House Appropriations Committee Press Release