WASHINGTON, DC – There are just two hurdles between members of the U.S. Senate and passage of a bipartisan infrastructure package: how to pay for it and the details.
First on the issue of how to pay for it. Despite agreeing earlier to increase funding to the IRS to close the tax gap as a mechanism to fund the proposal, Republicans are now saying the Democratic plan will actually cost more money than it brings in.
On the second issue of concern, Republicans voted against a cloture motion on Wednesday that would have brought the package up for debate and a vote because there are no details, and no text for members to read.
Civics class reminds us that all bills that involve raising revenue must begin in the House – also known as the Origination Clause. However, since House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has already said they will not consider an infrastructure package before they pass a $3.5 trillion reconciliation budget bill.
So, if the Senate does finally come up with a solution that works for all involved, they’ll be looking for a House-passed bill to amend which will allow them to satisfy the Constitutional requirements.
Currently, there’s a good deal of optimism from both sides of the aisle as leaders continue to probe revenue-raising measures.
(SOURCE: All Ag News)