Monday, April 7th, 2025

Budget Resolution: The Senate passed (51-48) H.Con.Res.14, the Senate GOP's compromise budget. Internal disputes have centered on two main issues: the use of a "current policy" baseline to avoid offsetting the cost of pricey tax-cut extensions and the scope of possible cuts to Medicaid. Senators can offer up amendments for as long as they want once the vote-a-rama kicks off. If the budget resolution is adopted, it would go back to the House for another vote. The measure originated in that chamber, but the Senate is set to modify it. The measure now heads back to the House.

The revised budget plan -- needed to move forward with a broad, filibuster-proof bill reconciliation containing GOP priorities -- would keep a set of more ambitious spending cut targets for House committees while setting a minimal spending cut floor for Senate panels. The resolution would also set the stage to extend about $3.7 trillion in expiring tax cuts and enact up to $1.5 trillion in additional tax breaks over 10 years.

Restricting Presidential Tariff Authority: A pair of Republican Senators have released draft legislation that would require the president to notify Congress of a decision to impose or raise tariffs within 48 hours with an explanation for the levy and of the impact on U.S. consumers. Congress would have to approve the tariffs within 60 days with a joint resolution, or they would expire. Congress could also end them at any time with a resolution of disapproval.