Central ND News

The Senate has passed the final tranche of funding bills for Fiscal Year 2024, completing the appropriations process for the year. After the House's bipartisan vote of 286 to 134, the Senate supported the bills with a wide margin of 74 to 24, bringing an end to the lengthy process.

In a statement following the passage of the funding bills, U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota expressed relief at the resolution, stating, "Six months after the end of the fiscal year, Congress finally reached the finish line and successfully avoided a government shutdown." He also acknowledged the significance of the funding, noting that while the process took longer than expected, it has made progress towards a more transparent and responsible approach.

The $1.2 trillion appropriations minibus includes substantial allocations for various departments, with $825 billion designated for the Department of Defense and $62 billion for the Department of Homeland Security. These funds support critical programs related to financial services, labor, health, and education.

Within the Department of Defense and State Department, significant provisions were made, including a nearly $27 billion increase in funding for the Department of Defense from the previous fiscal year. This increase enables the full funding of a 5.2% pay raise for servicemembers, crucial defense programs like the Sentinel program, and investments in Air Force capabilities.

Regarding Homeland Security, the funding bill allocates resources for border security, ICE operations, and disaster relief efforts. Notably, the bill includes provisions for hiring Border Patrol Agents, enhancing border security technology, and supporting Coast Guard missions.

In the Financial Services sector, the bill freezes the IRS budget while prioritizing key programs such as the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas initiative and the SBA's Veterans Certification program. Additionally, language requiring agencies to report on productivity levels and efforts to reduce underutilized office space was included.

The Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, & Education also received increased funding for critical health research programs, workforce development initiatives, and support for individuals with disabilities. Tribal Colleges & Universities, TRIO programs, and the Flood Insurance Program were among those benefiting from the appropriations bill.

With the final tranche of funding bills approved, the FY24 appropriations process has come to a close, providing essential resources for various sectors and programs crucial for national security, defense, and public welfare.