As this issue goes to press, the process of budget reconciliation is playing out in our nation’s capital. The final outcome will have implications on important issues like Medicaid, the ACA Marketplace, and access. As a backdrop to better understand the process, the federal government’s fiscal year runs from October 1st to September 30th, and it is always preferable to have things wrapped up by the end of September to avoid the potential of a “government shutdown,” but the actual timing of a final bill is unclear. It is possible and even likely that there will be resolution before the GOP’s self-imposed July 4rth timeline. On the other hand, one can never rule out a surprise externality.
Though the President plays a role in submitting a proposal, it is ultimately Congress who must iron things out and approve a final budget. At this point, the House bill has crossed over to the Senate where it was further amended. There are special rules that apply that are meant to streamline reconciliation. Passage requires only a simple majority (not three-fifths) of the Senate. Filibustering is also prohibited in the Senate for reconciliation and changes introduced can only if they impact budgetary provisions.
The resulting Senate language is sent back to the House (that’s where things stand now) where it will be voted on again. As the bill can only be sent to the President for signature or veto after the House and Senate adopt the same version.
Three cheers to the Peterson Foundation who created a lovely infographic that visualizes the process:
Michigan Multipayer Initiatives 