Mike Johnson’s plan to avoid a government shutdown is a two-step approach that would extend funding for some agencies through January 19th and the rest until February 2nd. The goal of the plan is to give Congress more time to negotiate a full-year spending bill and avoid a shutdown.

Before knowing the plan let’s know what is a “Government Shutdown” and how it affects.

What is a Government Shutdown?

A government shutdown takes place when the legislative branch is unable to pass crucial bills that provide funding or authorization for the executive branch’s operations. Consequently, this can lead to the suspension of certain or all government activities.

Impact of a Government Shutdown?

During a Government Shutdown

1 Nonessential government offices are unable to remain open

2 Some essential workers must continue to work but their pay may be furloughed

3 Federal agencies must discontinue all non-essential discretionary functions until new funding legislation is passed and signed into law

4 Essential services continue to function, as do mandatory spending programs

5 The federal government curtails agency activities and services

6 Shutdowns can also disrupt state, territorial, and local levels of government

A government shutdown can impact

a) Renewal and processing times of passports.

b) Federal loans to small businesses.

c) A last-minute deal in September to keep the federal government open through mid-November.

Mike Johnson’s plan to avoid government shutdown

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the Mike Johnson’s plan:

Step 1:

This step would fund the following agencies through January 19th:

Military construction

Veterans benefits

Transportation

Housing and Urban Development

Agriculture

Food and Drug Administration

Energy and water programs

Step 2:

This step would fund all other federal operations, including defence, until February 2nd.

Mixed reaction about the plan

The plan has been met with mixed reactions from lawmakers. Some Republicans have expressed support for the plan, while others have criticized it for not going far enough in cutting spending. Democrats have also criticized the plan, arguing that it is unnecessary and could lead to a shutdown in February.

Despite the criticism, Johnson has said that he is confident that his plan will be successful in avoiding a shutdown. He has also said that he is open to negotiating with Democrats on a full-year spending bill.

It remains to be seen whether Johnson’s plan will be successful in avoiding a shutdown. However, the plan has the potential to be a compromise solution that could get the support of both Republicans and Democrats.