In an effort to prevent a partial government shutdown, Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana has put forward a new proposal following a recent House GOP rebellion that derailed a more conservative measure. The plan involves a short-term extension, known as a continuing resolution (CR), of the current year's government funding levels to allow more time for congressional negotiators to determine federal spending priorities for the upcoming fiscal year commencing on Oct. 1. House leaders are targeting a vote this week on the CR, which is expected to mirror the preferences of Senate Democrats and the White House more closely than Johnson's initial plan.

The revised proposal, designed to keep the government running through Dec. 20, has drawn criticism from the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus and its allies. However, amidst concerns from most Republicans about the repercussions of a potential shutdown so close to Election Day, there is a growing consensus on the necessity of passing the continuing resolution. The plan has seen alterations, including the removal of extra disaster relief funds and the exclusion of the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, a bill requiring proof of citizenship during the voter registration process.

A notable addition to the new plan is the allocation of approximately $230 million to the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), coupled with enhanced oversight measures in response to security concerns following thwarted attempts on former President Trump's life. While uncertainties remain regarding the plan's reception in the Democratic-controlled Senate and the White House, Johnson remains committed to finding a pragmatic solution in the face of mounting pressure to avert a government shutdown. The ongoing debate over government funding in the 118th Congress underscores the deep divisions even among the most conservative House allies, showcasing the challenges Johnson's proposal may encounter as it moves forward for consideration and potential implementation.