Senate language blocks OMB Uniform Guidance

Earlier this week, the Senate cleared a key procedural hurdle by a bipartisan margin of 89-4 on a continuing resolution (CR) that would fund the operations of the federal government and block the implementation of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Uniform Guidance from going into effect until December 11. The Senate intends to pass the bill before it adjourns for the August recess.

Appropriations Committee Chair Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA) were key players in getting the delay language included in the CR. Once the Senate passes its version of the CR, it will have to go back to the House for an additional vote as the House version does not include the blocking language and other additional provisions included in the Senate bill.

The White House issued a Statement of Policy in support of the CR, and encouraged both chambers to pass this version, with the goal of avoiding a government shutdown in advance of the mid-term elections. While the White House did not address the delay in implementing the OMB regulations, surrogates have been quoted as saying the regulations would not have been ready until December anyway and a further extension will not be on the table during December negotiations.

For more information, please contact:
Stephanie Giesecke