Avoiding A Government Shutdown

Work to fund the government takes place on two fronts this week. In the House, lawmakers debate a 14-day continuing resolution proposed by Republicans. It would cut $4 billion from FY 2011 spending. Reductions would come from cuts already proposed by the president, plus the elimination of earmarks. In the Senate, Democrats propose a seven-month continuing resolution. It would also cut earmarks. National Journal reports the Senate proposal would also accelerate about $25 billion in cuts by having them occur in 2011. The president requested the cuts for 2012. Congress has until Friday to pass a funding bill to avert a federal government shutdown.