Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018

• 115th Congress
  • Key votes: 115th Congress, 2017-2018
• Domestic policy
  • Energy and the environment
  • Healthcare
  • Immigration
• Economic policy
  • Budget
  • Financial policy
  • Taxes
  • Trade
• Foreign policy
  • Iran nuclear deal
• Trump administration

115th Congress, 2017-2018 Issues

Domestic policy Key votes • Energy and the environment • Healthcare • Immigration

Economic policy and government regulations Key votes • Budget • Financial policy • Taxes • Trade

Foreign policy and national security Key votes • Iran nuclear deal

Members of the 115th United States Congress introduced 13,556 pieces of legislation, and 867 of those received a vote. Ballotpedia identified 79 of those votes as key votes—votes that helped citizens understand where their legislators stood on major policy issues. This page tracked key votes from the 115th Congress, which convened on January 3, 2017, and adjourned on January 3, 2019.

Signed legislation

President Donald Trump signed fourteen major pieces of legislation into law during this time. The laws appear below.

Economic affairs and regulations

HJ Res 143—Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2019

On December 7, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HJ Res 143—Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2019—into law. It was a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until December 21, 2018. Congress passed the CR by voice vote the previous day. The bill allowed legislators to avoid a partial government shutdown.

The CR extended funding at existing levels for federal government agencies until December 21, 2018, while negotiators worked out a final funding bill. It also extended funding for the National Flood Insurance Program, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant.

HR 6157—the Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019

On September 28, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HR 6157—the Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019. The $854 billion minibus spending bill allocated funding for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education. It included increased funding for Pell Grants, the National Institutes of Health, the opioid epidemic, workforce development training, defense research, and a pay raise for members of the military, among other things. It also included a short-term stopgap bill to fund departments not funded through the regular appropriations process through December 7, 2018.

During a signing ceremony, Trump said that he signed the bill because it would “rebuild our military, protect our communities, and deliver a better future for all Americans.” He said that the bill would help strengthen the military by providing “the largest pay raise for our warriors in nearly a decade” and securing funding for new jets, helicopters, and ships. He also said that the bill would protect Americans by including funding for border security and school safety measures. He concluded by saying, “America is being respected again – and our people are being protected again. I am pleased to have signed this bill into law.”

HR 5895—the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019

On September 21, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HR 5895—the Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019. The $147 billion minibus bill that included funding for military construction and veterans’ affairs, the legislative branch, and energy and water.

While speaking at the North Las Vegas VA Medical Center where he signed the bill, Trump said, “I’m honored to be [sic] to sign into law a historic government funding bill that will renovate our nation’s military bases and provide great world-class care to our great veterans. With this funding bill, we’ve increased the VA’s budget to the largest ever. We are delivering the resources needed to fully implement crucial VA reforms that, as you know, we’ve gotten.”

S 2155—the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act

On May 24, 2018, President Donald Trump signed S 2155—the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act—into law. The law exempted some smaller banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that was signed into law by President Barack Obama (D) on July 21, 2010.

The law raised from $50 billion to $250 billion the threshold at which banks face stress tests and other rules. It also made community banks eligible for relief from mortgage-underwriting standards. The bill did not change the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s structure and oversight powers, the Financial Stability Oversight Council, or the Orderly Liquidation Authority to take over failing financial firms. Read more about the law here.

During a signing ceremony, Trump said that the bill was the first step toward ending the regulations instituted under the 2010 law. As a candidate, Trump said that he would work to repeal and replace Dodd-Frank. Referring to the promise, he said, “We’ve kept a lot of promises. This is truly a great day for Americans, and a great day for workers and small businesses across the nation.”

HR 1625—the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018

On March 23, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HR 1625—the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018—into law. The $1.3 trillion spending bill included $695 billion in defense funding and $591 billion in non-defense funding. It also included $78 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) spending. A breakdown of what was included and excluded in the bill can be viewed here.

While signing the bill, Trump said,

“

As a matter of national security, I’ve signed this omnibus budget bill. There are a lot of things that I’m unhappy about in this bill. There are a lot of things that we shouldn’t have had in this bill, but we were, in a sense, forced — if we want to build our military — we were forced to have. There are some things that we should have in the bill. But I say to Congress: I will never sign another bill like this again. I’m not going to do it again. Nobody read it. It’s only hours old. Some people don’t even know what is in — $1.3 trillion — it’s the second largest ever. President Obama signed one that was actually larger, which I’m sure he wasn’t too happy with either. But, in this case, it became so big because we need to take care of our military, and because the Democrats, who don’t believe in that, added things that they wanted in order to get their votes. We have to get rid of the filibuster rule. We have to get rid of the filibuster rule, and go to 51 votes in the Senate, if we’re going to have really sustained, continued success. DACA recipients have been treated extremely badly by the Democrats. We wanted to include DACA. We wanted to have them in this bill — 800,000 people. And actually, it could even be more. And we wanted to include DACA in this bill. The Democrats would not do it. They would not do it. To prevent the omnibus situation from ever happening again, I’m calling on Congress to give me a line-item veto for all government spending bills. And the Senate must end. They must end the filibuster rule and get down to work. We have to get a lot of great legislation approved. And without the filibuster rule, it will happen just like magic.

”

HR 1892—the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018

On February 9, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HR 1892—the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018—into law. The bill funded the government until March 23, 2018. It included a budget deal that increased federal spending by almost $300 billion over two years above limits set by the 2011 Budget Control Act. It increased defense spending by $80 billion for the remainder of the fiscal year, included $85 billion for fiscal year 2019, and $140 billion over two years for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) fund. It increased domestic spending by $63 billion for the remainder of fiscal year 2018 and $68 billion for fiscal year 2019. Additionally, it suspended the debt ceiling through March 1, 2019. For more on the budget deal, click here.

In a series of tweets, Trump wrote, "Just signed Bill. Our Military will now be stronger than ever before. We love and need our Military and gave them everything — and more. First time this has happened in a long time. Also means JOBS, JOBS, JOBS! Without more Republicans in Congress, we were forced to increase spending on things we do not like or want in order to finally, after many years of depletion, take care of our Military. Sadly, we needed some Dem votes for passage. Must elect more Republicans in 2018 Election! Costs on non-military lines will never come down if we do not elect more Republicans in the 2018 Election, and beyond. This Bill is a BIG VICTORY for our Military, but much waste in order to get Dem votes. Fortunately, DACA not included in this Bill, negotiations to start now!"

HR 195—the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018

On January 22, 2018, President Donald Trump signed HR 195—the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018—into law. The continuing resolution funded the government through February 8, 2018. It also included a six-year funding extension for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. It did not include a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. The continuing resolution ended a three-day government shutdown.

In a statement, Trump said, "I am pleased that Democrats in Congress have come to their senses and are now willing to fund our great military, border patrol, first responders, and insurance for vulnerable children. As I have always said, once the Government is funded, my Administration will work toward solving the problem of very unfair illegal immigration. We will make a long-term deal on immigration if, and only if, it is good for our country."

HR 1—the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HR 1—the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—into law. The $1.5 trillion law lowered tax rates for individuals and corporations, eliminated the individual mandate that required most Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and opened the Arctic Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling, among other things.

While signing the bill, Trump said, “This is the bill right here, we’re very proud of it... I consider this very much a bill for the middle class, and for jobs. Corporations are literally going wild for [t]his.”

HR 1370—the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018

On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HR 1370—the Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018—into law. The continuing resolution provided funding for the government through January 19, 2018. It also extended programs under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and provided funding for the Department of Defense, public health programs, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Veterans Choice Fund.

HJ Res 123—Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes

On December 8, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HJ Res 123—Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes—into law. The two-week stopgap spending bill temporarily funded the government until December 22, 2017, so lawmakers could negotiate a final spending bill for fiscal year 2018.

HR 601—the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government)

On September 8, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HR 601—the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017—into law. The bill suspended the debt ceiling and funded the government until December 8, 2017. The bill also included $15.25 billion for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts. The bill was the result of a deal struck by Trump and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

After Trump signed the bill, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued the following statement:

“	The President appreciates Congress putting aside partisan politics and acting quickly to ensure that first responders, local officials, and Federal emergency management personnel have the resources they need to respond to the natural disasters impacting our Nation. H.R. 601 provides an additional $15.25 billion in emergency appropriations for disaster relief and extends the authorization of the National Flood Insurance Program through December 8th, a welcome action for all of those affected by these terrible disasters. Additionally, as the damage from Hurricane Irma unfolds, it is especially important that the men and women in the Southeast and our Caribbean territories stand strong and rest assured that this Administration will always put the needs of the American people above partisan politics as usual.	”
—White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders

HR 244—Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017

On May 5, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HR 244—the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017—into law. The $1.2 trillion budget bill funded the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017. The bill included, but was not limited to, the following: a $12.5 billion increase in defense spending; an additional $2.5 billion in defense spending to fight the Islamic State (ISIS/ ISIL); a $2 billion increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health; $1.5 billion for border security—the money could not be used for Trump's border wall; $407 million in wildfire relief for western states; $295 million for Puerto Rico's Medicaid program; $100 million to combat opioid addiction; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Arts; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Humanities; $61 million for local law enforcement agencies in New York and Florida to protect Trump; funding for Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc.; and funding for coal miners' healthcare.

Foreign policy and national security

HR 2810—the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018

On December 12, 2017, President Donald Trump signed into law the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2018. It authorized $626.4 billion for the base defense budget and $65.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. It included a 2.4 percent pay raise for service members, an increase of 20,000 active duty and reserve troops, a $4.4 billion increase for missile defense programs, and an increase in the numbers of ships, planes, and other military equipment. It was the 56th consecutive year that Congress passed the defense policy bill.

The NDAA establishes the spending levels and policies for the U.S. Department of Defense, but it does not appropriate funding. Lawmakers had to strike a deal to raise spending caps put in place by the 2011 Budget Control Act to pass an appropriations bill for the amount requested in the NDAA.

During the bill signing ceremony, Trump said, “In recent years, our military has undergone a series of deep budget cuts that have severely impacted our readiness, shrunk our capabilities, and placed substantial burdens on our warfighters. And great warfighters they are. History teaches us that when you weaken your defenses, you invite aggression. The best way to prevent conflict or be -- of any kind -- is to be prepared, and really be prepared. Only when the good are strong will peace prevail. Today, with the signing of this defense bill, we accelerate the process of fully restoring America's military might.”

Trump also praised members of Congress for passing the bill with “overwhelming bipartisan support” and called on Congress to eliminate the defense sequester and pass a clean appropriations bill.

HR 3364—the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act

On August 2, 2017, President Donald Trump signed HR 3364—the Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act—into law. The bill placed sanctions on Iran, North Korea, and Russia. It targeted those identified as supporters of terrorism and Iran’s ballistic missile program. Individuals and entities involved with North Korea’s shipping industry were also sanctioned. It required the president to get congressional approval before easing or lifting sanctions on Russia. Additionally, the bill set into law sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for Russia’s interference in Ukraine, Syria, and the 2016 presidential election.

Trump criticized some of the provisions of the bill, specifically those related to Russia, but praised the bill for sending a message to Iran and North Korea. Part of his statement on the bill appears below.

“	I favor tough measures to punish and deter bad behavior by the rogue regimes in Tehran and Pyongyang. I also support making clear that America will not tolerate interference in our democratic process, and that we will side with our allies and friends against Russian subversion and destabilization. ... Still, the bill remains seriously flawed – particularly because it encroaches on the executive branch’s authority to negotiate. Congress could not even negotiate a healthcare bill after seven years of talking. By limiting the Executive’s flexibility, this bill makes it harder for the United States to strike good deals for the American people, and will drive China, Russia, and North Korea much closer together. The Framers of our Constitution put foreign affairs in the hands of the President. This bill will prove the wisdom of that choice. Yet despite its problems, I am signing this bill for the sake of national unity. It represents the will of the American people to see Russia take steps to improve relations with the United States. We hope there will be cooperation between our two countries on major global issues so that these sanctions will no longer be necessary. Further, the bill sends a clear message to Iran and North Korea that the American people will not tolerate their dangerous and destabilizing behavior. America will continue to work closely with our friends and allies to check those countries’ malignant activities. I built a truly great company worth many billions of dollars. That is a big part of the reason I was elected. As President, I can make far better deals with foreign countries than Congress.	”
—President Donald Trump

United States Senate

Votes on domestic policy

First Step Act of 2018 (S 756)

 Motion Agreed to (87-12) on December 18, 2018

Proposed making changes to the criminal justice system.

• The details: Forty-seven Democrats, 38 Republicans, and independent Sens. Angus King (Maine) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.) voted for the bill. Twelve Republicans and no Democrats voted against the bill. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) did not vote. The bill proposed reforming lifetime mandatory minimum sentencing by giving a judge more discretion when sentencing non-violent repeat drug offenders and making the Fair Sentencing Act retroactive. It also proposed providing prisoners with drug treatment programs; vocational and educational training and instruction; the ability to earn credit for early release; and placing inmates closer to their family and friends to allow for easier and more frequent visitations.

Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (HR 2)

 Conference Report Agreed to (87-13) on December 11, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance through fiscal year 2023.

• The details: Forty-seven Democrats, 38 Republicans, and independent Sens. Angus King (Maine) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.) voted for the bill. Thirteen Republicans and no Democrats voted against the bill. The bill included funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It did not include a proposal from House Republicans to modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, to require most able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 59 without young children to work at least 20 hours a week to receive SNAP benefits. It did create a system aimed at preventing SNAP fraud. The program proposed ensuring that multiple states would not simultaneously provide SNAP benefits to the same person.

"Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States" (PN2259)

 Nomination Confirmed (50-48) on October 6, 2018

Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States

• The details: Forty-nine Republicans and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted to confirm Judge Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. Forty-six Democrats and independent Sens. Angus King (Maine) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.) voted against Kavanaugh's nomination. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), who opposed Kavanaugh's nomination, paired her vote with Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), who supported Kavanaugh's nomination, so Daines could attend his daughter's wedding instead of flying back to Washington D.C., for the vote. A simple majority was needed to confirm Kavanaugh.

"Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States" (PN2259)

 Cloture Motion Agreed to (51-49) on October 5, 2018

Brett M. Kavanaugh, of Maryland, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States

• The details: Fifty Republicans and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted to invoke cloture and advance Judge Brett Kavanaugh's nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court. Forty-six Democrats, independent Sens. Angus King (Maine) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.), and Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) voted against advancing Kavanaugh's nomination. A cloture vote proposes ending unlimited debate on a nomination. Passage of a cloture vote begins a 30-hour time limit for final debate. Once that expires, the Senate votes on the nomination.

Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2)

 Bill Passed (86-11, 3/5 majority required) on June 28, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance.

• The details: Forty-six Democrats, thirty-eight Republicans, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted for the bill. Eleven Republicans—Sens. Richard Burr (N.C.), Bob Corker (Tenn.), Tom Cotton (Ark.), Jeff Flake (Ariz.), Dean Heller (Nev.), James Inhofe (Okla.), Ron Johnson (Wis.), James Lankford (Okla.), Mike Lee (Utah), Rand Paul (Ky.), and Pat Toomey (Pa.)—voted against the bill. Sens. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), and John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. The five-year bill proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It also proposed making administrative changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to prevent fraud.

"A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Federal Communications Commission relating to 'Restoring Internet Freedom.'" (SJ Res 52)

 Joint Resolution Passed (52-47) on May 16, 2018

Proposed reversing the Federal Communications Commission's decision to repeal the 2015 Open Internet Order, which prohibited internet service providers from blocking or slowing web traffic or providing paid internet fast lanes.

• The details: Forty-seven Democrats, three Republicans—Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Kennedy (R-La.), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska)—and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted to reverse the Federal Communications Commission's decision to repeal the 2015 Open Internet Order, which prohibited internet service providers from blocking or slowing web traffic or providing paid internet fast lanes. Forty-seven Republicans voted against the resolution. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote.

See also: Federal policy on technology, privacy, and cybersecurity, 2017-2020

Immigration reform proposal from Sen. Chuck Grassley and the Trump administration (S Amdt 1959 to HR 2579)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (39-60, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for 1.8 million individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, limits on chain migration or family-based migration, and eliminating the visa lottery system.

• The details: Forty-four Democrats, 14 Republicans, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against proceeding to a vote on the legislation. Thirty-six Republicans and three Democrats—Sens. Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.)— voted to proceed to a vote on the final legislation. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. Sixty votes were needed to proceed to a vote on the final amendment. The legislation proposed a path to citizenship for 1.8 million individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, limits on chain migration or family-based migration, and eliminating the visa lottery system.

See also: 115th Congress on immigration, 2017-2018

Immigration reform proposal from the Common Sense Coalition (S Amdt 1958 to HR 2579)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (54-45, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, and limitations on chain or family-based immigration.

• The details: Forty-four Democrats, eight Republicans—Sens. Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.)—and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted to proceed to a vote on the final legislation. Forty-two Republicans and three Democrats—Sens. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Tom Udall (D-N.M.)—voted against proceeding to a vote. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. Sixty votes were needed to proceed to a vote on the final amendment. The legislation proposed a path to citizenship for 1.8 million individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children, $25 billion for border security, and limitations on family-based immigration.

Stop Dangerous Sanctuary Cities Act amendment (S Amdt 1948 to S Amdt 1959)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (54-45, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed withholding funding from sanctuary jurisdictions for not cooperating with federal immigration officials.

• The details: Fifty Republicans and four Democrats—Sens. Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.)—voted to proceed to a vote on the final amendment. Forty-three Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against proceeding to a vote. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. Sixty votes were needed to proceed to a vote on the final amendment. The amendment proposed withholding “certain non-law enforcement federal grant funds from ‘sanctuary cities’ -- jurisdictions that forbid their local law enforcement officers from cooperating with federal immigration officials, even when they wish to do so,” according to a press release from Sen. Pat Toomey’s (R-Pa.) office.

Coons-McCain immigration plan (S Amdt 1955 to S Amdt 1958)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (52-47, 3/5 majority required) on February 15, 2018

Proposed providing a path to citizenship for individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children and conducting a study to determine what border security measures were needed. It also proposed requiring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to secure the U.S.-Mexico border by 2021.

• The details: Forty-six Democrats, four Republicans—Sens. Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Cory Gardner (R-Colo.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska)—and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted to proceed to a vote on the legislation. Forty-six Republicans and Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted against the motion. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. Sixty votes were needed to proceed to a vote on the final amendment. The legislation proposed a path to citizenship for 1.8 million individuals brought into the U.S. without legal permission as children and included a study to determine what border security measures were needed. It also proposed requiring the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to secure the U.S.-Mexico border by 2021. It did not include any funding for border security.

Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (S 2311)

 Cloture on the Motion to Proceed Rejected (51-46, 3/5 majority required) on January 29, 2018

Proposed amending the federal criminal code to make it a crime for any person to perform or attempt to perform an abortion if the probable post-fertilization age of the fetus was 20 weeks or more. The bill proposed providing exceptions for an abortion: (1) that was necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or (2) when the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.

• The details: Forty-two Democrats, two Republicans—Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Susan Collins (R-Maine)—and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the motion. Forty-eight Republicans and three Democrats—Sens. Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), and Bob Casey (D-Pa.)—voted to proceed to a vote on the bill. Sens. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), John McCain (R-Ariz.), and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) did not vote. Sixty votes were needed to end a filibuster. The legislation, introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), proposed making it a crime to perform an abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy. A person who performed an abortion after 20 weeks would face a fine, up to five years in prison, or both. The bill proposed exceptions in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. A woman who had an abortion after 20 weeks could not be prosecuted. The House passed the bill on October 3, 2017, by a vote of 237-189, along party lines.

An amendment to repeal the ACA, including Paul amendment (No. 271) (S Amdt 271 to S Amdt 267 to HR 1628)

 Amendment Rejected (45-55) on July 26, 2017

An amendment to repeal the ACA, including Paul amendment (No. 271)

• The details: Forty-six Democrats, seven Republicans, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the amendment. Republican Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dean Heller (R-Nev.), John McCain (R-Ariz.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) also voted against the amendment. Forty-five Republicans voted for the amendment. The amendment proposed repealing the Affordable Care Act and delaying the effective date for two years to provide time for a replacement bill. The proposal was similar to the repeal-only bill—the Restoring Americans' Healthcare Freedom Reconciliation Act—passed by Congress in 2015. It included an amendment from Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) that would have prohibited the use of tax credits for health plans that covered abortion services.

Motion to advance the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017, including Cruz and Portman amendments (S Amdt 270 to S Amdt 267 to HR 1628)

 Motion Rejected (43-57, 3/5 majority required) on July 25, 2017

A procedural vote to advance the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017 (BCRA), including the Cruz and Portman amendments.

• The details: Forty-six Democrats, nine Republicans, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the motion. Forty-three Republicans voted for the motion. Sixty votes were needed to secure passage. GOP Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dean Heller (R-Nev.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), and Mike Lee (R-Utah) voted against the repeal and replace proposal, a version of the Better Care Reconciliation Act of 2017 (BCRA). The proposal also included amendments from Sens. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Ted Cruz (R-Texas). Portman's amendment proposed including funding to help individuals in states that expanded Medicaid pay for deductibles and copays if they lost their Medicaid coverage. Cruz's amendment proposed allowing insurance companies to sell plans that did not meet the ACA's requirements, as long as they also offered plans that did meet the requirements.

Motion to begin debate on the American Health Care Act of 2017 (HR 1628)

 Motion to Proceed Agreed to (50-50, Vice President voted Yea) on July 25, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to title II of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2017.

• The details: Fifty Republicans voted for the motion to proceed to the American Health Care Act of 2017 (AHCA), the House-passed ACA repeal and replace bill. Republican Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) voted with forty-six Senate Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) against the motion. Vice President Mike Pence voted in favor of the bill to break the 50-50 tie, the fourth time he cast a tie-breaking vote. The vote did not change existing law, but opened debate on healthcare legislation.

See also: Republican effort to repeal the ACA, July 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(4)—confirmation vote)

 Nomination Confirmed (54-45) on April 7, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—confirmation vote.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans and Democratic Sens. Joe Donnelly (Ind.), Heidi Heitkamp (N.D.), and Joe Manchin (W.Va.) voted to confirm Judge Neil Gorsuch as the 113th associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Forty-three Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against Gorsuch's confirmation. Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.) did not vote.

See also: Supreme Court vacancy, 2017: An overview

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(3))

 Cloture Motion Agreed to (55-45) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—second vote to end debate and move to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination under the new precedent requiring only a simple majority to pass.

• The details: Fifty-two Republicans and Democratic Sens. Joe Donnelly (Ind.), Heidi Heitkamp (N.D.), and Joe Manchin (W.Va.) voted to proceed to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination. Forty-three Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the motion.

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55(2))

 Decision of Chair Not Sustained (48-52) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—a vote to keep the Senate precedent of requiring 60 votes to close debate on Supreme Court nominations.

• The details: Fifty-two Republicans voted to change Senate precedent on nominations to the U.S. Supreme Court by requiring a simple majority vote to close debate on all nominations instead of 60 votes. Forty-six Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted to keep the 60 vote threshold.

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States (PN55)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (55-45, 3/5 majority required) on April 6, 2017

Neil M. Gorsuch, of Colorado, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—initial vote to end debate and move to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans and Democratic Sens. Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Joe Donnelly (D-Ind.), Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.), and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted to invoke cloture on Gorsuch's nomination. Forty-two Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against proceeding to a vote on Gorsuch's nomination. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) also voted against invoking cloture as a procedural mechanism to begin the process of changing the rules for closing debate on the nomination by a simple majority of votes.

Votes on economic affairs and regulations

Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2019, and for other purposes. (HJ Res143)

 Bill Passed by voice vote on December 6, 2017

Proposed providing continuing FY2019 appropriations to several federal agencies through December 21, 2018.

• The details: The Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until December 21, 2018, by voice vote. The CR extended funding at existing levels for federal government agencies until December 21, 2018, while negotiators worked out a final funding bill. It also extended funding for the National Flood Insurance Program, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant. President Donald Trump signed it into law on December 7, 2018.

"Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 6157)

 Conference Report Agreed to (93-7) on September 18, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.

• The details: Forty-seven Democrats, 45 Republicans, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Six Republicans and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. The $854 billion minibus spending bill allocated funding for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education. It included increased funding for Pell Grants, the National Institutes of Health, the opioid epidemic, workforce development training, defense research, and a pay raise for members of the military, among other things. It also included a short-term stopgap bill to fund departments not funded through the regular appropriations process through December 7, 2018. President Donald Trump signed it into law on September 28, 2018.

"Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 5895)

 Conference Report Agreed to (92-5) on September 12, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.

• The details: Forty-seven Republicans, 43 Democrats, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted for the bill. Three Democrats—Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Ed Markey (Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.)—and two Republicans—Sens. Jeff Flake (Ariz.) and Rand Paul (Ky.)—voted against the bill. Two Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The conference version of the minibus included three appropriations bills—Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. It proposed funding for the U.S. Department of Energy, water development programs, nuclear programs, the legislative branch, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs, for fiscal year 2019. President Donald Trump signed it into law on September 21, 2018.

"Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 6157)

 Bill Passed (85-7) on August 23, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.

• The details: Forty-four Democrats, 40 Republicans, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Six Republicans and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Five Republicans and three Democrats did not vote. The $854 billion minibus spending bill allocated funding for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education. It included increased funding for Pell Grants, the National Institutes of Health, the opioid epidemic, workforce development training, defense research, and a pay raise for members of the military, among other things.

"Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019" (HR 5895)

 Bill Passed (86-5) on June 25, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.

• The details: Forty-four Republicans, 40 Democrats, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted for the bill. Three Democrats—Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (N.Y.), Ed Markey (Mass.), Elizabeth Warren (Mass.)—and two Republicans—Sens. Mike Lee (Utah) and Rand Paul (Ky.)—voted against the bill. Five Republicans and four Democrats did not vote. The $144.5 billion minibus that included three appropriations bills—Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs—proposed funding for the U.S. Department of Energy, water development programs, nuclear programs, the legislative branch, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs, for fiscal year 2019.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget, 2017-2018

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1625)

 Motion Agreed to (65-32) on March 23, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes.

• The details: Thirty-nine Democrats, 25 Republicans, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Twenty-three Republicans, eight Democrats, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. The $1.3 trillion spending bill included $695 billion in defense funding and $591 billion in non-defense funding. It also included $78 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) spending. A breakdown of what was included and excluded in the bill can be viewed here. The House passed the bill by a vote of 256-167 on March 22, 2018. President Donald Trump signed it into law on March 23, 2018.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget, 2017-2018

Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (S 2155)

 Bill Passed (67-31) on March 14, 2018

Proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.

• The details: Fifty Republicans, 16 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Thirty Democrats and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.) did not vote. The bill proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that was signed into law by President Barack Obama (D) on July 21, 2010. It proposed raising from $50 billion to $250 billion the threshold at which banks face stress tests and other rules. It also proposed making community banks eligible for relief from mortgage-underwriting standards. The bill proposed keeping in place the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s structure and oversight powers, the Financial Stability Oversight Council, or the Orderly Liquidation Authority to take over failing financial firms. It passed the House on May 23, 2018, by a vote of 258-159. President Donald Trump signed it into law on May 24, 2018.

See also: 115th Congress on financial policy, 2017-2018

The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (HR 1892)

 Motion Agreed to (71-28) on February 9, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through March 23, 2018

• The details: Thirty-six Democrats, 34 Republicans, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Sixteen Republicans, 11 Democrats, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Sen. John McCain, who was receiving treatment for brain cancer, did not vote. The bill funded the government until March 23, 2018. It included a budget deal that increased federal spending by almost $300 billion over two years above limits set by the 2011 Budget Control Act. It increased defense spending by $80 billion for the remainder of the fiscal year, included $85 billion for fiscal year 2019, and $140 billion over two years for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) fund. Domestic spending was increased by $63 billion for fiscal year 2018 and $68 billion for fiscal year 2019. Additionally, it suspended the debt ceiling through March 1, 2019. For more on the budget deal, click here. On February 9, 2018, it passed the House by a vote of 240-186, and President Donald Trump signed it into law on the same day.

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 695)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (55-44, 3/5 majority required) on February 8, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through March 23, 2018.

• The details: Forty-nine Republicans and six Democrats voted for the motion to proceed to the continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until March 23, 2018. Forty-one Democrats and Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Angus King (I-Maine), and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the CR. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who was undergoing treatment for brain cancer, did not vote. It also included funding for the U.S. Department of Defense through fiscal year 2018; two years of funding for community health centers; and funding for several expiring Medicare programs. It passed the House by a vote of 245-182 on February 6, 2018.

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

 Motion Agreed to (81-18) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.

• The details: Forty-eight Republicans, 32 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government. Fifteen Democrats voted with two Republicans—Sens. Rand Paul (Ky.) and Mike Lee (Utah)—and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) against the CR. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who was undergoing treatment for brain cancer, was not present for the vote. The continuing resolution proposed funding the government through February 8, 2018. It also included a six-year funding extension for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. It did not include a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. It passed the House and was signed by President Donald Trump on the same day. The vote ended the government shutdown.

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

 Cloture Motion Agreed to (81-18, 3/5 majority required) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.

• The details: Forty-eight Republicans, 32 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted to proceed to a vote on the continuing resolution to fund the government. Fifteen Democrats voted with two Republicans—Sens. Rand Paul (Ky.) and Mike Lee (Utah)—and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) against the motion. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who was undergoing treatment for brain cancer, was not present for the vote. The continuing resolution proposed funding the government through February 8, 2018. It also included a six-year funding extension for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. It did not include a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 195)

 Cloture Motion Rejected (50-49, 3/5 majority required) on January 19, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.

• The details: Forty-five Republicans and five Democrats—Sens. Joe Manchin (W.Va.), Joe Donnelly (Ind.), Heidi Heitkamp (N.D.), Claire McCaskill (Mo.), and Doug Jones (Ala.)—voted to proceed to a vote on the continuing resolution. Forty-two Democrats voted with five Republicans—Sens. Rand Paul (Ky.), Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Mike Lee (Utah), Jeff Flake (Ariz.), and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.)—and independent Sens. Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Angus King (Maine) against the motion. Although McConnell supported passage of the continuing resolution, he voted against the motion to end debate for procedural reasons. McConnell had to be on the prevailing side of the vote to be able to call for a revote. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who was undergoing treatment for brain cancer, was not present for the vote. The continuing resolution proposed funding the government through February 16, 2018, and included a six-year extension of funding for CHIP. It also proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. It did not include a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. It passed the House on January 18, 2018. The continuing resolution did not pass, leading to a shutdown of the government.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget, 2017-2018

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1370)

 Motion Agreed to (66-32, 3/5 majority required) on December 21, 2017

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.

• The details: Forty-eight Republicans, 17 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Twenty-nine Democrats, two Republicans—Sens. Mike Lee (Utah) and Rand Paul (Ky.)—and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Two Republicans—Sens. Johnny Isakson (Ga.) and John McCain (Ariz.)—did not vote. The continuing resolution provided funding for the government through January 19, 2018. It also extended programs under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and provided funding for the Department of Defense, public health programs, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Veterans Choice Fund. On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed it into law. It was the third continuing resolution passed since the beginning of the 2018 fiscal year to keep the government funded.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

 Motion Agreed to (51-48) on December 20, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018 and proposed changes to the tax code.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans and no Democrats voted for the bill. Forty-six Democrats and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.), who was recovering from chemotherapy, did not vote. Some of the bill's provisions appear below.

• Eliminated the personal exemption and increased the standard deduction.
• Doubled the child tax credit to $2,000 per child from $1,000.
• Set the corporate tax rate at 21 percent.
• Eliminated the individual mandate that required most Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2019.
• Eliminated the corporate alternative minimum tax, and increased the exemption from the individual AMT.
• Kept the estate tax.
• Allowed a deduction of up to $10,000 in state and local sales, income, or property taxes.
• Kept tax breaks for charitable contributions and retirement savings plans.
• Opened the Arctic Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling.
• Set corporate repatriation rate at 8 percent on illiquid assets and 15.5 percent on cash.

President Donald Trump signed the bill into law on December 22, 2017.

See also: 115th Congress on taxes, 2017-2018

"A joint resolution making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes." (HJ Res 123)

 Joint Resolution Passed (81-14) on December 7, 2017

Proposed funding the government until December 22, 2017.

• The details: Forty-two Republicans, 38 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the resolution. Six Republicans, seven Democrats, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the resolution. Four Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The two-week stopgap spending bill temporarily funded the government until December 22, 2017, so lawmakers could negotiate a final spending bill for fiscal year 2018. The resolution passed the House on December 7, 2017, by a vote of 235-193. President Donald Trump signed it into law on December 8, 2017.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

 Bill Passed (51-49) on December 2, 2017

Proposed amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans and no Democrats voted for the resolution. Forty-six Democrats, Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Republican Sen. Bob Corker (Tenn.) voted against the bill. The bill proposed the following:

• Keeping the seven-bracket tax structure: 10, 12, 22.5, 32.5, 35, 38.5 percent. The top rate of 38.5 percent would start at $1 million for married couples and $500,000 for individuals.
• Cutting the corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 20 percent. The cut would be delayed until 2019.
• Increasing the standard deduction to $12,000 for individuals and $24,000 for married couples.
• Expanding the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 and phasing it out for married couples making $1 million.
• Keeping the deduction for state and local property taxes, capped at $10,000.
• Keeping the 40 percent estate tax but doubling the estate tax exemption to a maximum of $11 million per person.
• Creating a 23 percent deduction for pass-through business income.
• Keeping the adoption tax credit.
• Keeping the charitable contribution deduction.
• Keeping the mortgage interest deduction for homes up to $1 million.
• Keeping the individual and corporate alternative minimum taxes.
• Doubling the exemption from the estate tax.

A concurrent resolution establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

 Concurrent Resolution Agreed to (51-49) on October 19, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans and no Democrats voted for the resolution. Forty-six Democrats, Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Republican Sen. Rand Paul (Ky.) voted against the resolution. Passing the budget resolution was the first step for Republicans to initiate the reconciliation process, which is what they wanted to use to pass their tax reform package. Reconciliation would prevent Democrats from filibustering the tax proposal and allow Republicans to pass it with a simple majority of 51 votes in the Senate, instead of the usual 60-vote requirement. The budget resolution proposed maintaining spending at 2017 levels for the year. It proposed cutting nondefense spending in subsequent years, with a $106 billion cut in 2027. It proposed allowing defense spending levels to continue rising at their existing rates, reaching $684 billion in 2027. It also proposed cutting $473 billion from Medicare’s baseline spending and about $1 trillion from Medicaid over 10 years. One major difference between the two budget resolutions was that the Senate version allowed for tax cuts that reduced revenues and increased deficits by $1.5 trillion over a decade, while the House version called for revenue-neutral tax legislation that would not increase deficits. On October 26, 2017, the House passed the Senate's version of the budget resolution to avoid having to reconcile differences between each chamber’s version of the resolution in a conference committee.

See also: Federal policy on taxes, 2017-2018

Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government) (HR 601)

 Motion Agreed to (80-17) on September 7, 2017

Proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017, and providing funding for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts.

• The details: Forty-five Democrats, 32 Republicans, and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted for the bill. Seventeen Republicans and no Democrats voted against the bill. Two Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The bill proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017. The bill also included more than $15 billion for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts. The bill was the result of a deal struck by President Donald Trump (R) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). The House passed the bill on September 8, 2017. Trump signed it into law on September 8, 2017.

Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (HR 244)

 Motion Agreed to (79-18) on May 4, 2017

The $1.2 trillion budget bill proposed funding the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017.

• The details: Forty-five Democrats voted with 32 Republicans and Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) in favor of the bill. Eighteen Republicans voted against the bill. No Democrats voted against the bill. The bill included, but was not limited to, the following: a $12.5 billion increase in defense spending; an additional $2.5 billion in defense spending to fight the Islamic State (ISIS/ ISIL); a $2 billion increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health; $1.5 billion for border security—the money could not be used for President Donald Trump's border wall; $407 million in wildfire relief for western states; $295 million for Puerto Rico's Medicaid program; $100 million to combat opioid addiction; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Arts; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Humanities; $61 million for local law enforcement agencies in New York and Florida to protect Trump; funding for Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc.; and funding for coal miners' healthcare. President Donald Trump signed the bill into law on May 5, 2017.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget (2017-2018)

Votes on foreign policy and national security

"A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that have not been authorized by Congress." (SJ Res 54)

 Joint Resolution Passed (56-41) on December 13, 2018

Proposed removing United States Armed Forces from hostilities in the Republic of Yemen that were not authorized by Congress.

• The details: Forty-seven Democrats, seven Republicans—Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Rand Paul (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), and Mike Lee (R-Utah)—and independent Sens. Angus King (Maine) and Bernie Sanders (Vt.) voted to pass the resolution. Forty-one Republicans voted against the resolution. Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Dean Heller (R-Nev.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) did not vote. The resolution proposed requiring President Donald Trump to remove within 30 days U.S. Armed Forces in Yemen who were supporting Saudi Arabia in its proxy war with Iran. It was the first time in history the Senate used its authority under the War Powers Act of 1973 to withdraw forces from a war it did not approve.

See also: Federal policy on Arab states of the Persian Gulf, 2017-2018

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018—Conference report (HR 2810)

 Bill Passed by voice vote on November 15, 2017

To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes.

• The details: The Senate passed the defense policy bill by voice vote. It authorized $626.4 billion for the base defense budget and $65.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. It included a 2.4 percent pay raise for service members, an increase of 20,000 active duty and reserve troops, a $4.4 billion increase for missile defense programs, and an increase in the numbers of ships, planes, and other military equipment. The original bill passed the Senate on September 18, 2017. This bill was the result of compromises made in the conference report. President Donald Trump signed it on December 12, 2017.

See also: Federal policy on the military, 2017-2020

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 2810)

 Bill Passed (89-8) on September 18, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the Department of Energy, and to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. On November 15, 2017, the Senate passed the defense policy bill by voice vote. This bill was the result of compromises made in the conference report. For more information on the compromise bill, click here.

• The details: Forty-seven Republicans, 41 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Four Democrats, three Republicans, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) voted against the bill. Two Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The $700 billion NDAA proposed authorizing $640 billion for the base budget and $60 billion in the wartime Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) account. In comparison, the House passed a $695 billion NDAA that proposed authorizing $621.5 billion for the base budget and $75 billion in the OCO account. The Senate bill proposed a 2.1 percent increase in pay for members of the military, which is lower than the House's proposed raise of 2.4 percent. The House passed the bill by a vote of 344-81 on July 14, 2017. Members of the Senate and House went to conference to work on the differences between each chamber's bill. The Senate approved the final bill on November 15, 2017. President Donald Trump signed it on December 12, 2017.

See also: Federal policy on the military, 2017-2020

Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (HR 3364)

 Bill Passed (98-2) on July 27, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and proposed countering aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans, 46 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) cast the only votes against the bill. The bill placed sanctions on Iran, North Korea, and Russia. It targeted those identified as supporters of terrorism and Iran’s ballistic missile program. Individuals and entities involved with North Korea’s shipping industry were sanctioned. It required the president to get congressional approval before easing or lifting sanctions on Russia. Additionally, the bill set into law sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for Russia’s interference in Ukraine, Syria, and the 2016 presidential election. President Donald Trump signed it into law on August 2, 2017.

See also: Federal policy on Iran, 2017-2020, Federal policy on North Korea, 2017-2020, and Federal policy on Russia, 2017-2020

Countering Iran's Destabilizing Activities Act of 2017 (S 722)

 Bill Passed (98-2) on June 15, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and proposed countering aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.

• The details: Fifty-one Republicans, 46 Democrats, and Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) voted for the bill. Sens. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) cast the only votes against the bill. The legislation proposed placing sanctions on Iranians who supported terrorism, committed human rights violations, and were involved in the development of Iran’s ballistic missile program. An amendment to the bill proposed making sanctions placed on Russia by executive order under former President Barack Obama (D) law. It also proposed placing sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses, individuals who supplied weapons to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and on Russia’s energy sector. The bill also targeted individuals who engaged in malicious cyber attacks on behalf of the Russian government. Additionally, the bill proposed requiring President Donald Trump to get Congress' approval before easing or eliminating sanctions on Russia. The House revised the bill by adding sanctions to North Korea. The final bill passed on July 27, 2017, and President Donald Trump signed it into law on August 2, 2017.

See also: Federal policy on Iran, 2017-2020 and Federal policy on Russia, 2017-2020

United States House of Representatives

Votes on domestic policy

Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (Conference report) (HR 2)

 Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance through fiscal year 2023.

• The details: One hundred and eighty-seven Democrats and 182 Republicans voted for the bill. Forty-four Republicans and three Democrats—Reps. Ron Kind (D-Wis.), Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), and Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas)—voted against the bill. Nine Republicans and seven Democrats did not vote. The bill included funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It did not include a proposal from House Republicans to modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, to require most able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 59 without young children to work at least 20 hours a week to receive SNAP benefits. It did create a system aimed at preventing SNAP fraud. The program proposed ensuring that multiple states would not simultaneously provide SNAP benefits to the same person.

Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2 (second vote))

 Bill Passed (213-211) on June 21, 2018

Proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It also proposed modifying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as the food stamp program.

• The details: Two hundred and thirteen Republicans and zero Democrats voted to approve the five-year farm bill. One hundred and ninety-one Democrats and twenty Republicans voted against the bill. Two Democrats and two Republicans did not vote. The legislation proposed reauthorizing U.S. Department of Agriculture programs dealing with commodity support, conservation, farm credit, and crop insurance, among other things. The bill also proposed provisions expanding work requirements and eligibility rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, previously known as the food stamp program. These provisions proposed requiring non-disabled adults who were not responsible for children aged six or younger to work at least 20 hours per week in order to retain eligibility. As defined by the bill, work included employment and training programs.

See also: Federal policy on agriculture and food, 2017-2020

Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018 (HR 2)

 Bill Passed (369-47) on December 12, 2018

Reauthorizes through FY2023 and modifies some Department of Agriculture (USDA) programs.

• The details: One hundred and ninety-eight Republicans and zero Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and eighty-three Democrats and thirty Republicans voted against the bill. Ten Democrats and seven Republicans did not vote. Although he supported the bill, Speaker of the House Paul Ryan voted "no" on it as a procedural formality so that he could bring the bill up for a vote in the future. The five-year, $867 billion farm bill proposed providing funding for commodity support, conservation, trade and international food aid, nutrition assistance, farm credit, rural development, research and extension activities, forestry, horticulture, and crop insurance. It also proposed modifying the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, to require most able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 59 without young children to work at least 20 hours a week to receive SNAP benefits.

See also: Federal policy on agriculture and food, 2017-2020

Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (HR 36)

 Bill Passed (237-189) on October 3, 2017

Proposed amending the federal criminal code to make it a crime for any person to perform or attempt to perform an abortion if the probable post-fertilization age of the fetus was 20 weeks or more. The bill provided exceptions for an abortion: (1) that was necessary to save the life of the pregnant woman, or (2) when the pregnancy was the result of rape or incest.

• The details: Two hundred and thirty-four Republicans and three Democrats—Reps. Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Daniel Lipinski (D-Ill.), and Collin Peterson (D-Minn.)—voted for the bill. One hundred and eighty-seven Democrats and two Republicans—Reps. Charlie Dent (R-Pa.) and Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-N.J.)—voted against the bill. Four Democrats and three Republicans did not vote. The bill proposed making it a crime to perform an abortion after 20 weeks of pregnancy. A person who performed an abortion after 20 weeks would face a fine, up to five years in prison, or both. The bill proposed exceptions in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of the mother. A woman who had an abortion after 20 weeks would not be prosecuted. The Senate rejected a motion to proceed to the bill by a vote of 51-46 on January 29, 2018.

See also: Federal policy on abortion, 2017-2020

Kate's Law (HR 3004)

 Bill Passed (257-167) on June 29, 2017

Proposed increasing criminal penalties for individuals in the country illegally who were convicted of certain crimes, deported, and then re-entered the U.S. illegally.

• The details: Two hundred and thirty-three Republicans and 24 Democrats voted in favor of the bill. One hundred and sixty-six Democrats and one Republican—Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.)—voted against the bill. Six Republicans and three Democrats did not vote. The bill proposed enhancing penalties for deported felons who return to the United States. According to the Republican Policy Committee, "The bill is named after Kate Steinle, who was murdered in San Francisco by an unlawful immigrant who had previously been deported five times and was convicted of multiple felonies."

See also: 115th Congress on immigration, 2017-2018

No Sanctuary for Criminals Act (HR 3003)

 Bill Passed (228-195) on June 29, 2017

Proposed withholding federal funds from states and localities that chose not to follow federal immigration laws.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-five Republicans and three Democrats—Reps. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), Matt Cartwright (D-Pa.), and Henry Cuellar (D-Texas)—voted for the bill. One hundred and eighty-eight Democrats and eight Republicans—Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), Carlos Curbelo (R-Fla.), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-Fla.), Justin Amash (R-Mich.), Peter King (R-N.Y.), Daniel Donovan (R-N.Y.), and David Reichert (R-Wash.)—voted against the bill. Eight Republicans and two Democrats did not vote. The bill proposed cutting federal grants to states and localities that refuse to follow federal immigration laws. Specifically, the bill would cut funding to sanctuary jurisdictions that did not cooperate with federal law enforcement officials tasked with immigration enforcement activities.

See also: 115th Congress on immigration, 2017-2018

American Health Care Act of 2017 (HR 1628)

 Bill passed (217-213) on May 4, 2017

Proposed modifying the budgetary and fiscal provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare.

• The details: Two hundred and seventeen Republicans and no Democrats voted to approve the bill. One hundred and ninety-three Democrats and 20 Republicans voted against the bill. The bill proposed modifying the budgetary and fiscal provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as Obamacare. It proposed repealing the tax penalties on individuals for not maintaining health coverage and on employers for not offering coverage. The ACA's subsidies for purchasing insurance would end, as would the enhanced federal funding for states that expanded Medicaid. The bill proposed its own system of tax credits, based on age rather than income, and a penalty in the form of increased premiums for individuals who did not maintain continuous coverage. The bill then was sent to the Senate where it was revised and ultimately rejected.

See also: House roll call vote on the American Health Care Act of 2017

Votes on economic affairs and regulations

Child Protection Improvements Act of 2017 (HR 695)

 Bill Passed (217-185) on December 20, 2018

Proposed providing continuing FY2019 appropriations to several federal agencies through February 8, 2019.

• The details: The House passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until February 8, 2019, by a vote of 217-185, with 31 members not voting. The resolution included $5 billion in funding for a border wall.

Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2019, and for other purposes. (HJ Res143)

 Bill Passed by voice vote on December 6, 2017

Proposed providing continuing FY2019 appropriations to several federal agencies through December 21, 2018.

• The details: The Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government until December 21, 2018, by voice vote. The CR extended funding at existing levels for federal government agencies until December 21, 2018, while negotiators worked out a final funding bill. It also extended funding for the National Flood Insurance Program, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013, and the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grant. President Donald Trump signed it into law on December 7, 2018.

Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 6157)

 Bill Passed (361-61) on September 26, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.

• The details: One hundred and eighty-five Democrats and 176 Republicans voted for the conference report bill. Fifty-six Republicans and five Democrats voted against the bill. Three Democrats and three Republicans did not vote. The $854 billion minibus spending bill allocated funding for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education. It included increased funding for Pell Grants, the National Institutes of Health, the opioid epidemic, workforce development training, defense research, and a pay raise for members of the military, among other things. It also included a short-term stopgap bill to fund departments not funded through the regular appropriations process through December 7, 2018. President Donald Trump signed it into law on September 28, 2018.

Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Act, 2019 (Conference report) (HR 5895)

 Bill Passed (377-20) on September 13, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.

• The details: Two hundred and two Republicans and 175 Democrats voted for the bill. Eighteen Republicans and two Democrats—Reps. Ted Lieu (Calif.) and Jan Schakowsky (Ill.)— voted against the bill. Sixteen Democrats and 15 Republicans did not vote. The conference version of the minibus included three appropriations bills—Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs. It proposed funding for the U.S. Department of Energy, water development programs, nuclear programs, the legislative branch, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs, for fiscal year 2019. President Donald Trump signed it into law on September 21, 2018.

Department of Defense and Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 6157)

 Bill Passed (359-49) on June 28, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-two Republicans and 137 Democrats voted for the bill. Forty-six Democrats and three Republicans voted against the bill. Ten Democrats and nine Republicans did not vote. The $854 billion minibus spending bill allocated funding for the Departments of Defense, Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor, and Education. It included increased funding for Pell Grants, the National Institutes of Health, the opioid epidemic, workforce development training, defense research, and a pay raise for members of the military, among other things.

Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2019 (HR 5895)

 Bill Passed (235-179) on June 8, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for the Department of Energy, water resources, the legislative branch, military construction, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs.

• The details: Two hundred and twelve Republicans and 23 Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and sixty-three Democrats voted with 16 Republicans against the bill. Seven Democrats and six Republicans did not vote. The $144.5 billion minibus that included three appropriations bills—Energy and Water, Legislative Branch, and Military Construction and Veterans Affairs—proposed funding for the U.S. Department of Energy, water development programs, nuclear programs, the legislative branch, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, among other programs, for fiscal year 2019.

Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act (S 2155)

 Bill Passed (258-159) on May 22, 2018

Proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-five Republicans and 33 Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and fifty-eight Democrats voted with Rep. Walter Jones (R-N.C.) against the bill. Eight Republicans and two Democrats did not vote. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 67-31 on March 14, 2018. The bill proposed exempting some banks from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act that was signed into law by President Barack Obama (D) on July 21, 2010. It proposed raising from $50 billion to $250 billion the threshold at which banks face stress tests and other rules. It also proposed making community banks eligible for relief from mortgage-underwriting standards. The bill proposed keeping in place the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s structure and oversight powers, the Financial Stability Oversight Council, or the Orderly Liquidation Authority to take over failing financial firms. President Donald Trump signed it into law on May 24, 2018.

See also: 115th Congress on financial policy, 2017-2018

Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1625)

 Bill Passed (256-167) on March 22, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes.

• The details: One hundred and forty-five Republicans and 111 Democrats voted for the bill. Ninety Republicans and 77 Democrats voted against the bill. The $1.3 trillion spending bill included $695 billion in defense funding and $591 billion in non-defense funding. It also included $78 billion in Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) spending. A breakdown of what was included and excluded in the bill can be viewed here. The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 65-32 on March 23, 2018. President Donald Trump signed it into law on the same day.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget, 2017-2018

The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 (HR 1892)

 Bill Passed (240-186) on February 9, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.

• The details: One hundred and sixty-seven Republicans and 73 Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and nineteen Democrats and 67 Republicans voted against the bill. Four Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The bill funded the government until March 23, 2018. It included a budget deal that increased federal spending by almost $300 billion over two years above limits set by the 2011 Budget Control Act. It increased defense spending by $80 billion for the remainder of the fiscal year, included $85 billion for fiscal year 2019, and $140 billion over two years for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) fund. Domestic spending increased by $63 billion for the remainder of the fiscal year and $68 billion for fiscal year 2019. Additionally, it suspended the debt ceiling through March 1, 2019. For more on the budget deal, click here. On February 9, 2018, it passed the Senate by a vote of 71-28, and President Donald Trump signed it into law on the same day.

Further Extension Of Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1892)

 Bill Passed (245-182) on February 6, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations through March 23, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-eight Republicans and eight Democrats voted to approve the continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government through March 23, 2018. One hundred and seventy-four Democrats and eight Republicans voted against the CR. Two Democrats and one Republicans did not vote. The continuing resolution also included funding for the U.S. Department of Defense through the end of the fiscal year; two years of funding for community health centers; and funding for several expiring Medicare programs. On February 8, 2018, it was rejected by the Senate by a vote of 55-44. It needed 60 votes to pass.

Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195)

 Bill Passed (266-150) on January 22, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 8, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-one Republicans and forty-five Democrats voted to approve the continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government. One hundred and forty-four Democrats and six Republicans voted against the CR. Ten Republicans and four Democrats did not vote. The continuing resolution proposed funding the government through February 8, 2018. It also included a six-year funding extension for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. It did not include a legislative solution for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. It passed the Senate and was signed by President Donald Trump on January 22, 2018. The vote ended the government shutdown.

Making further continuing appropriations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, and for other purposes. (HR 195)

 Bill Passed (230-197) on January 18, 2018

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through February 16, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-four Republicans and six Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and eighty-six Democrats and 11 Republicans voted against the bill. Three Republicans and one Democrat did not vote. The continuing resolution proposed funding the government through February 16, 2018. It included a six-year extension of funding for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). It also proposed delaying some healthcare taxes. President Donald Trump signed the final version of the bill on January 22, 2018.

Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 1370)

 Bill Passed (231-188) on December 21, 2017

Proposed providing further continuing appropriations through January 19, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and seventeen Republicans and 14 Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and seventy-two Democrats and 16 Republicans voted against the bill. Seven Democrats and six Republicans did not vote. The continuing resolution provided funding for the government through January 19, 2018. It also extended programs under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and provided funding for the Department of Defense, public health programs, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Veterans Choice Fund. On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed it into law. It was the third continuing resolution passed since the start of the fiscal year to keep the government funded.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

 Bill Passed (227-203) on December 19, 2017

Proposed providing for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-seven Republicans and no Democrats voted for the bill. One hundred and ninety-one Democrats and 12 Republicans voted against the bill. Two Democrats—Mark Pocan (Wis.) and Joseph Kennedy (Mass.)—did not vote. On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed the bill into law. Some of the bill's provisions appear below.

• Eliminated the personal exemption and increased the standard deduction.
• Doubled the child tax credit to $2,000 per child from $1,000.
• Set the corporate tax rate at 21 percent.
• Eliminated the individual mandate that required most Americans to buy health insurance or pay a penalty under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2019.
• Eliminated the corporate alternative minimum tax, and increased the exemption from the individual AMT.
• Kept the estate tax.
• Allowed a deduction of up to $10,000 in state and local sales, income, or property taxes.
• Kept tax breaks for charitable contributions and retirement savings plans.
• Opened the Arctic Wildlife Refuge to oil drilling.
• Set corporate repatriation rate at 8 percent on illiquid assets and 15.5 percent on cash.

See also: 115th Congress on taxes, 2017-2018

Making further continuing appropriations for fiscal year 2018, and for other purposes (HJ Res 123)

 Bill Passed (235-193) on December 7, 2017

Proposed funding the government until December 22, 2017.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-one Republicans and 14 Democrats voted for the resolution. One hundred and seventy-five Democrats and 18 Republicans voted against the resolution. Four Democrats and one Republican did not vote. The two-week stopgap spending bill temporarily funded the government until December 22, 2017, so lawmakers could negotiate a final spending bill for fiscal year 2018. The resolution passed the Senate on December 7, 2017, by a vote of 81-14. President Donald Trump signed it into law on December 8, 2017.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (HR 1)

 Bill Passed (227-205) on November 16, 2017

Proposed amending the Internal Revenue Code to reduce tax rates and modify policies, credits, and deductions for individuals and businesses.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-seven Republicans and no Democrats voted in favor of the bill. One hundred and ninety-two Democrats and 13 Republicans voted against the bill. Two Democrats did not vote. On December 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed the final version of the bill into law.

See also: 115th Congress on taxes, 2017-2018

Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

 Bill Passed (216-212) on October 26, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027. (This bill proposed adopting the Senate's budget resolution.)

• The details: Two hundred and sixteen Republicans and no Democrats voted for the resolution. One hundred and ninety-two Democrats and 20 Republicans voted against the resolution. Three Republicans and two Democrats did not vote. The House voted to pass the Senate's version of the budget instead of going to conference to reconcile differences between the House and Senate resolutions. Passing the budget resolution was the first step for Republicans to initiate the reconciliation process, which is what they would use to pass their tax reform package. Reconciliation would prevent Democrats from filibustering the tax proposal and allow Republicans to pass it with a simple majority of 51 votes in the Senate, instead of the usual 60-vote requirement. The budget resolution proposed maintaining spending at 2017 levels for the year. It proposed cutting nondefense spending in subsequent years, with a $106 billion cut in 2027. It proposed allowing defense spending levels to continue rising at their current rates, reaching $684 billion in 2027. It also proposed cutting $473 billion from Medicare’s baseline spending and about $1 trillion from Medicaid over 10 years. It also allowed for tax cuts that reduced revenues and increased deficits by $1.5 trillion over a decade. Budget resolutions are nonbinding, and they do not require the president’s signature.

Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. (H Con Res 71)

 Bill Passed (219-206) on October 5, 2017

Proposed establishing the congressional budget for the federal government for FY2018 and setting forth budgetary levels for FY2019-FY2027.

• The details: Two hundred and nineteen Republicans and no Democrats voted for the resolution. One hundred and eighty-eight Democrats and 18 Republicans voted against the resolution. Six Democrats and three Republicans did not vote. Passing the budget resolution was the first step for Republicans to initiate the reconciliation process, which is what they wanted to use to pass their tax reform package. Reconciliation would prevent Democrats from filibustering the tax proposal and allow Republicans to pass it with a simple majority of 51 votes in the Senate, instead of the usual 60-vote requirement. The resolution proposed $6.5 trillion in deficit reduction over 10 years. It proposed setting overall discretionary spending for fiscal year 2018 at $1.132 trillion. It proposed tax reform and increased defense and national security spending. It assumed that the American Health Care Act of 2017 would pass. It also proposed cuts to Medicare and nondefense programs. The Senate approved its budget resolution on October 19, 2017. The House voted to pass the Senate's version of the budget resolution to avoid having to reconcile differences between each chamber's version of the resolution in a conference committee.

Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3354)

 Bill Passed (211-198) on September 14, 2017

Proposed providing FY2018 appropriations for the federal government. It combined 12 appropriations bills.

• The details: Two hundred and ten Republicans and one Democrat—Rep. Collin Peterson (D-Minn.)—voted for the bill. One hundred and eighty-four Democrats and 14 Republicans voted against the bill. Sixteen Republicans and nine Democrats did not vote. The $1.2 trillion government funding package included all 12 appropriations bills. The bill proposed providing $621.5 billion for defense spending, $511 billion for nondefense spending, and an additional $87 billion in Overseas Contingency Operation (OCO) funding. Appropriations bills set spending limits for government agencies and programs but do not direct how federal funds are allowed to be used. In the normal budget process, the 12 appropriations bills are passed separately, not as a whole. The Senate was not expected to consider the appropriations proposal.

Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (Included amendments to suspend the debt ceiling and fund the government) (HR 601)

 Bill Passed (316-90) on September 8, 2017

Proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017, and providing funding for Hurricanes Harvey and Irma relief efforts.

• The details: One hundred and eighty-three Democrats and 133 Republicans voted for the bill. Ninety Republicans and no Democrats voted against the bill. Sixteen Republicans and 11 Democrats did not vote. The bill proposed suspending the debt ceiling and funding the government until December 8, 2017. The bill also included more than $15 billion for Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. The bill was the result of a deal struck by President Donald Trump (R) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). Trump signed it into law on September 8, 2017.

Disaster Relief Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 601)

 Bill Passed (419-3) on September 6, 2017

Proposed providing $7.85 billion for disaster relief requirements, including response and recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-nine Republicans and 190 Democrats voted in favor of the bill. Three Republicans—Reps. Justin Amash (R-Mich.), Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.)—and no Democrats voted against the bill. Seven Republicans and four Democrats did not vote. This bill proposed providing $7.85 billion for disaster relief requirements, including response and recovery efforts for Hurricane Harvey. It proposed providing $7.4 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund and $450 million for the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Disaster Loans Program Account. The bill was amended and passed by the Senate on September 7, 2017. The House passed the amended bill on September 8, 2017.

Financial CHOICE Act of 2017 (HR 10)

 Bill passed (233-186) on June 8, 2017

Proposed amending the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, among other acts.

• The details: Two hundred and thirty-three Republicans and zero Democrats voted to approve HR 10. One hundred and eighty-five Democrats and one Republican—Rep. Walter Jones (R-N.C.)—voted against the bill. HR 10 proposed repealing about 40 provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act. The bill proposed allowing banks to not be subject to the heightened regulatory requirements of Dodd-Frank by maintaining a 10-1 ratio of capital over borrowed money to withstand a financial downturn. It proposed granting the president the power to fire the head of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and the Federal Housing Finance Agency at any time and without cause, and it proposed granting Congress authority over the CFPB's budget. The bill also proposed repealing the Volcker Rule, a rule which prevents commercial banks from making speculative investments for their own profits. On March 14, 2018, the Senate passed its version of the bill. Read more about the Senate's bill here.

See also: Federal policy on financial regulation, 2017-2020

Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2017 (HR 244)

 Bill passed (309-118) on May 3, 2017

Proposed a $1.2 trillion budget to fund the government through the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2017.

• The details: One hundred and seventy-eight Democrats voted with 131 Republicans in favor of the bill. One hundred and three Republicans and 15 Democrats voted against the bill. The bill included, but was not limited to, the following: a $12.5 billion increase in defense spending; an additional $2.5 billion in defense spending to fight the Islamic State (ISIS/ ISIL); a $2 billion increase in funding for the National Institutes of Health; $1.5 billion for border security—the money could not be used for President Donald Trump's border wall; $407 million in wildfire relief for western states; $295 million for Puerto Rico's Medicaid program; $100 million to combat opioid addiction; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Arts; $150 million for the National Endowment for the Humanities; $61 million for local law enforcement agencies in New York and Florida to protect Trump; funding for Planned Parenthood Federation of America Inc.; and funding for coal miners' healthcare. The bill passed the Senate on May 4, 2017, and President Donald Trump signed it into law on May 5, 2017. It was the first major legislation of 2017 to pass the House with bipartisan support.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget (2017-2018)

Votes on foreign policy and national security

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (HR 5515)

 Bill Passed (351-66) on May 24, 2018

Proposed authorizing FY2019 appropriations and policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities

• The details: Two hundred and twenty Republicans and 131 Democrats voted for the bill. Fifty-nine Democrats and seven Republicans voted against the bill. Seven Republicans and three Democrats did not vote. The bill proposed $617 billion in base spending, $69 billion for the Overseas Contingency Operations war fund, and $22 billion for nuclear weapons programs. It included funding to hire 16,000 active-duty troops and a 2.6 percent pay raise for members of the military, the largest pay raise in nine years. It proposed $25 billion for equipment maintenance and funding for ships, aircraft, and military vehicles. Additionally, the bill proposed measures to prevent military aviation mishaps and fatalities. It proposed establishing an independent commission to study military aviation safety and authorized $39 billion for aviation upgrades.

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 695)

 Bill Passed (250-166) on January 30, 2018

Proposed providing appropriations for military functions administered by the Department of Defense and for other purposes, for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-seven Republicans and 23 Democrats voted in favor of the bill. One hundred and sixty-two Democrats and four Republicans—Reps. Justin Amash (R-Mich.), John Duncan Jr. (R-Tenn.), Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), and Mark Sanford (R-S.C.)—voted against the bill. Eight Democrats and six Republicans did not vote. This was the third time the House passed the bill. The $659.2 billion defense spending bill was nearly identical to the previous defense appropriations bills. It proposed authorizing $584 billion for the base budget and $75.1 billion for the Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) account. An additional $1.2 billion was added to the OCO account for Afghanistan operations that was not included in the first two bills. Defense spending was included in the $1.3 trillion spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on March 23, 2018.

See also: 115th Congress on the budget, 2017-2018, Federal policy on the military, 2017-2020

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018—Conference report (HR 2810)

 Bill Passed (356-70) on November 14, 2017

Proposed authorizing FY2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-nine Republicans and one hundred and twenty-seven Democrats voted in favor of the bill. Sixty-three Democrats and seven Republicans voted against the bill. Four Democrats and three Republicans did not vote. The defense policy bill authorized $626.4 billion for the base defense budget and $65.7 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. It included a 2.4 percent pay raise for service members, an increase of 20,000 active duty and reserve troops, a $4.4 billion increase for missile defense programs, and an increase in the numbers of ships, planes, and other military equipment. The original bill passed the House on July 14, 2017. This bill was the result of compromises made in the conference report. It passed the Senate on November 15, 2017. President Donald Trump signed it on December 12, 2017.

Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018 (HR 3219)

 Bill Passed (235-192) on July 27, 2017

Proposed making appropriations for defense, military construction, Veterans Affairs, the Legislative Branch, energy and water development, and for other purposes for the fiscal year ending on September 30, 2018.

• The details: Two hundred and thirty Republicans and five Democrats—Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.), Charlie Crist (D-Fla.), Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.), Tom O'Halleran (D-Ariz.), and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.)—voted in favor of the bill. One hundred and eighty-seven Democrats and five Republicans—Reps. Justin Amash (R-Mich.), John Duncan (R-Tenn.), Walter Jones (R-N.C.), Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), and Mark Sanford (S.C.)—voted against the bill. Four Republicans and two Democrats did not vote. The bill combined four of the 12 spending bills into one and included appropriations for defense, military construction, Veterans Affairs, the legislative branch, and energy and water development, among other things. It included $658.1 billion for the Department of Defense, $88.8 billion for military construction and Veterans Affairs, $37.6 billion for energy and water development, $3.58 billion for the legislative branch, and $1.6 billion for President Donald Trump's border wall. Defense spending, among other things, was included in the $1.3 trillion spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on March 23, 2018.

Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (HR 3364)

 Bill Passed (419-3) on July 25, 2017

Proposed providing congressional review and measures to counter aggression by the governments of Iran, the Russian Federation, and North Korea, and for other purposes.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-nine Republicans voted with 190 Democrats to approve the bill. GOP Reps. Justin Amash (R-Mich.), John Duncan (R-Tenn.), and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) cast the only votes against the bill. Seven Republicans and four Democrats did not vote. The bill placed sanctions on Iran, North Korea, and Russia. It targeted those identified as supporters of terrorism and Iran’s ballistic missile program. Individuals and entities involved with North Korea’s shipping industry were sanctioned. It required the president to get congressional approval before easing or lifting sanctions on Russia. Additionally, the bill set into law sanctions imposed by the Obama administration for Russia’s interference in Ukraine, Syria, and the 2016 presidential election. The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 98-2 on July 27, 2017. President Donald Trump signed it into law on August 2, 2017.

See also: Federal policy on Iran, 2017-2020, Federal policy on North Korea, 2017-2020, Federal policy on Russia, 2017-2020

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180, second vote)

 Bill Passed (380-35) on July 28, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-three Republicans and 157 Democrats voted for the bill. Twenty-nine Democrats and six Republicans voted against the bill. Ten Republicans and eight Democrats did not vote. The second vote on HR 3180 was not taken under suspension, as the first one was, and amendments were allowed to be offered. The bill proposed funding for the Central Intelligence Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, and other intelligence programs. It also included requirements for addressing Russia's interference in the 2016 election. It proposed requiring the director of national intelligence to deliver a report to Congress explaining any attempt by Russia to influence elections. It also proposed requiring the intelligence community to create a report detailing any leaks of classified information. Intelligence spending was included in the $1.3 trillion spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on March 23, 2018.

Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 3180)

 Bill Failed (241-163) on July 24, 2017

Proposed authorizing appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for intelligence and intelligence-related activities of the United States Government, the Community Management Account, and the Central Intelligence Agency Retirement and Disability System, and for other purposes.

• The details: One hundred and fifty-three Democrats and 10 Republicans voted against the bill. Two hundred and eleven Republicans and 30 Democrats voted in favor of the bill. Eighteen Republicans and 11 Democrats did not vote. This vote was taken under suspension, which required a two-thirds majority to pass. The bill proposed funding for the Central Intelligence Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency, National Security Agency, and other intelligence programs. The Democrats and Republicans who voted against the bill did so because they wanted time to debate the bill. Under suspension rules, debate is limited to 40 minutes, and amendments cannot be offered.

National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 (HR 2810)

 Bill Passed (344-81) on July 14, 2017

Proposed authorizing fiscal year 2018 appropriations and setting forth policies for Department of Defense (DOD) programs and activities, including military personnel strengths. It did not provide budget authority.

• The details: Two hundred and twenty-seven Republicans voted with 117 Democrats to approve the bill. Seventy-three Democrats and eight Republicans opposed the bill. Four Republicans and four Democrats did not vote. The $695 billion NDAA proposed authorizing $621.5 billion for the base budget and $75 billion in the wartime Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) account. The bill proposed including an increase in pay for members of the military, an increase in personnel, and more ships and aircraft, among other things. A full report on the contents of the NDAA can be viewed here. The Senate passed its version of the bill on September 18, 2017. After going to conference to work on the differences between each chamber's bill, the House and Senate approved the bill and sent it to Trump's desk for signature. He signed it on December 12, 2017.

Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2017 (HR 1301)

 Bill passed (371-48) on March 8, 2017

The $577.9 billion fiscal year 2017 defense spending bill proposed $516.1 billion in base budget funding and $61.8 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations/ Global War on Terrorism funding.

• The details: Two hundred and thirty-one Republicans voted with 141 Democrats to approve the bill. Forty-three Democrats and five Republicans voted against the bill. The bill included the following: funding for the purchase of aircraft and ships; operations and maintenance needs; additional readiness training for members of the armed forces; research and development; improvements to the military health system; and a 2.1 percent pay raise for U.S. Department of Defense employees. Defense spending, among other things, was included in the $1.3 trillion spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on March 23, 2018.

Tie-breaking votes cast by Pence

See also: Tie-breaking votes cast by vice presidents in the Senate

How many tie-breaking votes has Mike Pence cast in the Senate? Click to watch View other episodes here.

Vice President Mike Pence (R) cast 13 tie-breaking votes in the Senate:

• December 21, 2018: The Senate voted 47-47 on whether to open discussion on the Child Protection Improvements Act of 2017. Pence broke the tie to open discussion on the act.

• December 11, 2018: The Senate voted 50-50 on Jonathan Kobes' nomination to the United States Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit. Pence broke the tie to confirm Kobes.

• November 29, 2018: The Senate voted 50-50 on a cloture motion on Jonathan Kobes' nomination to the United States Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit. Pence broke the tie to invoke cloture.

• November 28, 2018: The Senate voted 50-50 on a cloture motion on Thomas Farr's nomination to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. Pence broke the tie to invoke cloture.

• February 28, 2018: The Senate voted 49-49 on Russell Vought's nomination to be the deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget. Pence broke the tie to confirm Vought.

• January 24, 2018: The Senate voted 49-49 to confirm Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback's (R) nomination as ambassador-at-large for international religious freedom. Pence broke the tie to confirm the nomination.
  • January 24, 2018: Pence broke an initial 49-49 tie to end debate on Gov. Brownback's's (R) nomination.

• December 2, 2017: The Senate voted 50-50 on an amendment to allow the use of 529 savings accounts to pay for elementary and secondary school costs, including private-school tuition. Pence broke the tie.

• October 24, 2017: The Senate voted 50-50 on a joint resolution to nullify a rule submitted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) regarding arbitration agreements. Pence broke the tie. The CFPB’s rule would have prevented companies from including arbitration clauses in customer contracts that block customers from filing class-action lawsuits in the case of a dispute. It was set to go into effect in 2018.

• July 25, 2017: The Senate held a vote on a motion to proceed to the American Health Care Act of 2017 (AHCA), the House-passed repeal and replace bill. The motion was approved 51-50. Pence voted in favor of the bill to break the 50-50 tie.

• March 30, 2017: The Senate voted to advance HJ Res 43—a measure allowing states to withhold federal funding for family planning from Planned Parenthood and other healthcare providers that perform abortions. Under an Obama-era regulation, states could not exclude a healthcare provider from receiving Title X funding for family planning and related services, like cervical cancer screenings, because it also provided abortion services. Pence cast the tie-breaking vote on the procedural motion to revoke the rule.
  • March 30, 2017: Pence then cast the tie-breaking vote on final vote to revoke the rule.

• February 7, 2017: Betsy DeVos was confirmed by the Senate as secretary of education by a vote of 51-50. It was the first time in history a vice president had broken a tie in a Cabinet nomination vote.

How do we identify key votes?

Between 2009 and 2019, lawmakers introduced 62,230 pieces of legislation, and 2,993 of those received a vote. Ballotpedia monitored legislation that received a vote and highlighted the ones that we considered to be key to understanding where elected officials stood on the issues. Here are the criteria and questions we used to identify a key vote:

• Impact of the legislation

• What impact will it have on citizens?
• Is it a wide-reaching piece of legislation that will impact many citizens?
• Is it budget-related or an appropriations bill?
• Is it a major change to an existing law?

• Leadership's engagement with the legislation

• Are the president and party leaders discussing the legislation regularly?
• During a congressional or presidential election cycle, is the legislation being discussed regularly on the campaign trail?

• Citizen engagement with the legislation

• Is it on Congress.gov's "Most-Viewed Bills" list?
• Is it trending on social media?

See also

• 115th United States Congress
• Tie-breaking votes cast by vice presidents in the Senate

External links

• Search Google News for this topic