House Passes Short-term Budget Resolution

Hawaii Reps. Mazie Hirono and Colleen Hanabusa were in the majority Thursday (Sept. 13) in a 329-91 vote approving a short-term continuing resolution that would fund government agencies and programs for the first six months of fiscal year 2013. The measure now heads to the Senate. 

As The Hill reports, many Republicans voted against the measure:

Dozens of Republicans were expected to vote against it as a reflection of their complaint that it does not cut enough.

But others were thought to oppose the bill because it would allow taxpayer dollars to be sent to Egypt and Libya, which some saw as objectionable in light of this week’s attacks on U.S. diplomatic posts in those countries. Just before the vote, Rep. Dan Burton (R-Ind.) indicated his disappointment that money would flow to these countries.

Statement from Hanabusa:

I hoped that the Appropriations process would work as it has in the past, producing a long-term funding bill and providing our government agencies with stability and peace of mind. However, this six-month continuing resolution represents a bipartisan agreement between Congressional Republicans, Congressional Democrats, and the White House. Most importantly, it ensures that our government will continue to operate and provide vital services, including FEMA disaster relief, veterans benefits, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

—Chad Blair