DEAR COLLEAGUE ON THE CONTINUING RESOLUTION
Letter
Dear Colleague,
I write with respect to the continuing resolution we will consider this week on the House floor.
As a Democratic Caucus, we have consistently made clear that we are willing to work with our Republican colleagues on a bipartisan basis to solve problems for hardworking American taxpayers whenever possible, while at the same time pushing back against extremism whenever necessary. Throughout this Congress, with respect to funding the government, avoiding a catastrophic default on our debt and securing $16 billion in disaster assistance for the American people, that is exactly what we have done.
In order to avert a partial shutdown of the government this week, another continuing resolution will be necessary. This will allow House appropriators, under the principled leadership of Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, to continue their negotiations with House Republicans and the Senate. With additional time, we will enact twelve appropriations bills that equitably fund the government at the top line spending number initially agreed to in the Bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act and recently reaffirmed by Speaker Mike Johnson.
The continuing resolution will extend the funding deadline for the four appropriations bills set to expire on January 19 to March 1, and for the eight appropriations bills set to expire on February 2 to March 8. Most importantly, the continuing resolution maintains funding at the fiscal year 2023 level and is free of partisan poison pill policy changes. For these reasons, I am in strong support of the effort to keep the appropriations process moving forward and avoid a disruptive partial government shutdown.
As we honor the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. tomorrow, I look forward to our continued efforts in pursuit of social, racial and economic justice for the American people. Thank you for your leadership in always putting people over politics as well as for your many thoughtful wishes following the recent loss of my father. Happy King Day.
Sincerely,
Hakeem Jeffries
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