Democrats' $3.5 Trillion Reconciliation Bill: Universal Pre-K, Free Community College In New Plan
Senate Democrats on Monday unveiled details of their $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill intended to strengthen social programs, fund education, healthcare, and combat climate change.
The bill contains President Joe Biden’s most ambitious plans such as universal pre-K, two years of free community college, paid sick and family leave, Medicare expansion for dental, vision, and hearing, as well as an extension of tax breaks for children and some low-income workers.
Spending would also increase for healthcare, housing, and job training. The package is expected to be paid for by raising taxes on wealthy earners and large corporations. Biden has maintained that those who earn less than $400,000 a year will not have their taxes raised.
All 50 Democrats will be needed to pass the bill with Vice President Kamala Harris casting a tie-breaking vote.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has eagerly sought to pass both a reconciliation package as well as a bipartisan one. The final vote on the bipartisan plan is expected this week, opening the door for the reconciliation package.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said she won’t let either bill come to a vote in the House unless both pass the Senate. Some House Democrats have said they would withhold support for the bipartisan plan unless the reconciliation bill is passed.
“At its core, this legislation is about restoring the middle class in the 21st century and giving more Americans the opportunity to get there,” Schumer said.
According to a summary of the budget resolution, the plan is set to “provide green cards to millions of immigrant workers and families” and “fund smart technology for safe and efficient borders for trade, travel, and migration."
“For too many decades, Congress has ignored the needs of the working class, elderly, children, sick, and poor,” said Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.
“Now it’s time for bold action. Now it’s time to restore the faith in ordinary Americans that their government can work for them, and not just wealthy campaign contributors."
Republicans universally oppose the reconciliation bill due to debt-ceiling concerns.
“[Democrats] won’t get our help with the debt limit increase that these reckless plans will require. I could not be more clear,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., has said she will allow the process to move forward but does not support the overall package. She has called the package too expensive and wants to see spending reduced.
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