House Republicans revealed their plan on Friday to prevent a partial government shutdown at the end of the month by funding the government through late March of the following year. This would allow the new president and Congress to make final decisions on agency spending and priorities for fiscal year 2025.

In a move that adds a controversial touch to the legislation, Republicans have included a provision that would require states to verify proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or passport, for voter registration. This particular requirement is likely to face opposition in the Senate, potentially complicating the bill’s passage.

With lawmakers returning to Washington after the August recess, it is clear that there is still much work to be done on the appropriations bills that fund government agencies for the next fiscal year. As a result, a stopgap measure will likely be necessary to avoid a shutdown when the new fiscal year begins on October 1.

Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the importance of funding the government and securing the election process by ensuring that only American citizens are involved in deciding American elections. However, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray stressed the need for a bipartisan approach to avoid a shutdown.

The decision to include the citizenship verification requirement in the spending measure follows a recommendation from the House Freedom Caucus in anticipation of the upcoming presidential election. Some Republican leaders hope to pass the final spending bills before the end of this Congress to allow the new president to focus on other priorities.

While Republicans argue that the citizenship requirement would enhance confidence in the election system, opponents believe it could disenfranchise many Americans. The bill, if passed, would fund agencies at current levels until March 28 and include additional funds for security costs and disaster relief.