Benton Times

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 1968, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2025. Congressman Steve Womack from Arkansas' 3rd District supported the measure.

Congressman Womack expressed concerns about the reliance on continuing resolutions, stating, "Passing another continuing resolution represents a failure on Congress’ part to perform its most basic function—to fund the government. It is past time for us to recommit to regular order and pass appropriation bills on time." He added that his support for this resolution was due to the limited time available for the current administration to develop a budget and initiate the appropriations process.

The resolution extends funding at current discretionary spending levels through September 30, 2025, with government funding set to expire on March 14, 2025. It supports immigration enforcement efforts by providing an additional $485 million for immigration detention beds and related costs. The Department of Defense will receive new start authorities and resources to address international threats and support servicemembers.

The act rescinds over $20 billion in funding from the Internal Revenue Service under the Inflation Reduction Act and nearly $10 billion from the Department of Commerce's Nonrecurring Expenses Fund through the Fiscal Responsibility Act. Additionally, it includes $6 billion in mandatory funding for veterans' health care needs under the Toxic Exposure Fund as part of the PACT Act.

Other provisions include $425 million for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program and $7.6 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The National Flood Insurance Program and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families are extended through FY25, along with expiring health care programs until September 30, 2025.