The 46-page bill aims to extend government funding through March 2025 while introducing stricter proof-of-citizenship requirements for voting. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) emphasized that the plan addresses two key priorities: keeping the government running and securing federal elections.

However, Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer and Patty Murray, have voiced strong opposition, arguing that bipartisan cooperation is necessary to avoid a shutdown. They warned that Johnson’s approach, which mirrors former Speaker McCarthy’s failed efforts from last year, increases the likelihood of a shutdown.

The bill also includes provisions for disaster relief funding and military shipbuilding. Still, it has sparked internal GOP debate over its alignment with the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, a measure that would mandate proof of citizenship for voter registration. Democrats have opposed the voting bill, and the Biden administration has threatened a veto.

With the government funding deadline approaching, the proposal sets the stage for a budget showdown later this month. Republicans hope to leverage the issue of immigration and the border as key campaign themes.