Special to the Progress
WASHINGTON – United States Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Dallas) has introduced legislation aimed at preventing the federal government from shutting down as a result of the impending negotiations between the Democratic leadership and President George W. Bush over funding levels for 2008 spending bills. H.R. 3583, the Government Shutdown Prevention Act, would provide for a continuing resolution in the event that Congress fails to enact any other legislation to keep the federal government running while negations continue on a final budget agreement. The bill currently has 40 original cosponsors.
“There are major differences of opinion when it comes to next year’s spending levels, but using the threat of a government shutdown as a negotiation tactic is simply unacceptable,” Hensarling said. “That is why I have introduced the Government Shutdown Prevention Act. It is absolutely vital that we keep the federal government up and running while negotiations regarding the 2008 budget are underway.”
Before the end of September, Congress is charged with the task of passing all appropriations bills for fiscal year 2008. In an attempt to restrain federal spending, the president has threatened to veto nine of the 12 bills. He is expected to have a showdown with the Democratic Party if it refuses to compromise on spending levels. This would force the government to shut down when it has not been appropriated the money it needs to run.
“Whether or not Congress agrees on spending levels, we should all be able to agree that a government shutdown must be avoided at all costs for the sake of the American people,” Hensarling added.
It has been more than a decade since the last federal government shutdown. However, in the last three decades, there have been 17 government shutdowns ranging from one day to 21 days in length.
Local News
Hensarling introduces bill to prevent government shutdown
- Local News
-
-
Agencies gearing up for Memorial Day weekend
The school year is wrapping up, and summer is almost here, but officials have some holiday safety tips to ensure the Memorial Day weekend is safe and fun for everyone.
-
Street blocked for sewer work
A portion of Bolton Street was blocked off Thursday as public works crews worked to find the source of a sewer stoppage.
-
Fourth-graders give scholarships, learn about college
As Tomato Fest approaches, officials with West Side Elementary school will have a booth to raise money for their West Side Elementary Alumni Scholarship given to graduating seniors.
-
Bullard council tables website decision
The Bullard city council tabled a decision on moving forward on a project for a new website design due to a lack of information.
-
LMC employees receive furlough notice
All but a core minimum group of Lon Morris employees received furlough notices Wednesday morning, and college President Miles McCall handed in his letter of resignation Tuesday, officials said Wednesday.
-
JISD alters graduation requirement for pair of subjects
Seniors at Jacksonville ISD will no longer have to take technology and health as a graduation requirement.
-
Rusk ISD lunch prices to rise 25 cents
A rise in school lunch prices is among several changes slated for Rusk ISD cafeterias.
-
County boasts 'pretty good' turnout
At the half-way mark of early voting for the May 29 primary, 1,485 Cherokee County voters turned in their ballots at the polls.
-
Organizations provide summer lunches for students
As schools approach summer vacation, Jacksonville has four locations offering free meals to students through the Summer Food Program.
-
Dome homes
Within the gated community of Lakewood in Cherokee County, homes are being built, ones so unique realtors can count how many they have seen on one hand.
- More Local News Headlines
-
Agencies gearing up for Memorial Day weekend

