US House Returns From Recess to Prioritize Government Funding Bill

Stopgap Funding and Legislative Priorities

The primary order of business for the House is a stopgap spending bill designed to keep the federal government fully funded through early December. House Speaker Mike Johnson is expected to tee up the funding package early in the week. The legislation underwent significant alterations in the Senate that made it more palatable for Democrats, including delaying a proposed Office of Management and Budget rule that would grant political appointees increased power over federal grant distribution. The Senate-modified bill also incorporates language preventing the administration from transferring funds to the Border Patrol, alongside a provision that delays a federal ban on intoxicating hemp THC products by one month. That THC provision has drawn criticism from multiple Republican lawmakers, prompting GOP leaders to pursue a fast-track process that bypasses a separate procedural vote.

Sanctions on Russia and Congressional Ethics Votes

Lawmakers may also consider a Senate-passed bill that imposes sanctions on key segments of the Russian economy. Led by the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, the legislation permits President Donald Trump to place steep tariffs on goods imported from countries purchasing the vast majority of Russian oil and gas, aiming to cut off revenue used to finance the war against Ukraine. The measure cleared the Senate in an 86-11 vote, though some key House Democrats oppose it over concerns that sweeping new tariff authorities could be utilized against allies rather than foes. In addition to spending and foreign policy measures, the House faces its first opportunity to act on a recommendation from the House Ethics Committee to censure Rep. Chuck Edwards, R-N.C., for engaging in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides. Edwards has disputed the committee’s conclusion that he failed to adhere to rules prohibiting sexual harassment, pointing out that the panel found no evidence he engaged in sexual activity or explicitly propositioned any employee. Edwards dropped his reelection plans following the release of the committee report.