The GOP's budget package, now on its way to President Trump, secured passage with a slim majority after conservatives and Republicans with prior objections ultimately conceded. The core of the bill centers on extending $4.5 trillion in tax breaks from Trump's first term, along with new provisions. These include deductions for workers' tips and overtime pay, and a $6,000 deduction for many older adults earning under $75,000 annually.
This legislation effectively extends the largest piece of legislation passed during Trump's first presidency. Following the failed attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act, Republicans shifted their focus to tax cuts. The resulting 2017 tax bill altered the corporate tax rate and lowered individual income taxes, though it was found to disproportionately benefit wealthier households. Republicans at the time claimed it would not add to the federal debt, a promise that was not kept.
To help offset the costs, the bill introduces new work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP, formerly known as food stamps. Medicaid spending is projected to decrease significantly over the next decade. This will require recipients to meet new reporting requirements and paperwork. SNAP benefits will be withheld from adults with children who do not return to work, if their youngest child is 14 years or older.
A less-publicized aspect of the bill involves a massive increase in funding for immigration enforcement. This includes billions for border fencing, ICE enforcement operations, and the construction of new detention facilities, allowing for a significant expansion of arrests and raids.
The bill also addresses the "Green New Deal," rolling back electric vehicle tax credits and removing tax incentives for wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects by 2027. Furthermore, it raises the debt ceiling by $5 trillion, averting a potential deadline. Finally, it includes a substantial investment in national security, including funding for Trump's deportation agenda and the development of a defensive system, as part of a larger boost in defense spending.
5 Comments
Habibi
The debt ceiling increase is a band-aid. They are kicking the can down the road. We need a real budget.
ZmeeLove
The new work requirements are just another way to make it harder for people to get help. Shameful.
Michelangelo
Medicaid and SNAP cuts? They're punishing the most vulnerable to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. Disgusting.
Raphael
It's important that we get our budget under control, I am glad about the new requirements for Medicaid and SNAP!
Leonardo
Finally, someone is getting serious about border security! This is exactly what we need.