US House Passes Vote to Extend Federal Funding Through September 2025

In a closely watched vote, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed a continuing resolution (CR) to extend federal funding through September 30, 2025. This move aims to prevent a government shutdown and maintain current spending levels for the remainder of the fiscal year. The bill also includes several key health care provisions that were set to expire.

Background on Continuing Resolutions

Continuing resolutions are stopgap measures used by Congress to temporarily fund the government when a new budget is not in place. These resolutions allow the government to continue operating at current funding levels, preventing disruptions to essential services and programs. The latest CR passed by the House is crucial as it not only extends funding but also addresses critical healthcare needs.

Key Provisions in the Continuing Resolution

The CR includes several important provisions, particularly in the healthcare sector:

• Medicaid Disproportionate Share Hospital Relief: The bill eliminates Medicaid DSH cuts through September 30, 2025, preserving vital funding for hospitals that serve a high proportion of Medicaid patients.
• Medicare Rural Extenders: It extends the enhanced low-volume adjustment program through September 30, 2025, and the Medicare-dependent hospital program through October 1, 2025. These programs are essential for maintaining healthcare access in rural areas.
• Medicare Telehealth and Hospital-at-Home Extensions: The CR extends key telehealth waivers and the hospital-at-home program through September 30, 2025. These extensions support remote healthcare services, which have become increasingly important during the pandemic.
• Extension of the Work Geographic Index Floor: The bill maintains a 1.0 floor on the work Geographic Practice Cost Index through October 1, 2025, ensuring consistent reimbursement rates for healthcare providers.
• Medicare Rural Ambulance: It extends add-on payments for ambulance services through October 1, 2025, supporting rural, “super-rural,” and urban ambulance services.

Impact on Healthcare

The extension of these healthcare provisions is significant for maintaining access to care, especially in rural areas. Telehealth services have become a cornerstone of modern healthcare, allowing patients to receive medical consultations remotely. The hospital-at-home program also provides an alternative to traditional hospital settings, offering more personalized care options for patients.

Budget Reconciliation Process

While the CR provides temporary relief, the House and Senate are also working on budget reconciliation for Fiscal Year 2025. This process involves drafting budget resolutions that can be passed with a simple majority, allowing Congress to enact policy priorities without bipartisan support. The House has passed a budget resolution focusing on extending Trump-era tax cuts and enhancing border security, while the Senate has its own version with different priorities.

Next Steps

The Senate is expected to consider the CR this week. If passed, it will ensure that federal funding continues uninterrupted until the end of September. This stability is crucial for government agencies and programs, allowing them to plan and operate without the uncertainty of potential shutdowns.

Conclusion

The passage of this continuing resolution by the House is a significant step in maintaining government operations and supporting critical healthcare programs. As Congress continues to work on a comprehensive budget for FY 2025, the focus remains on balancing fiscal responsibilities with policy priorities.