The U.S. House of Representatives easily passed a $1.3 billion compromise spending bill on Thursday. Legislators approved the 2,232 -page bill with 256-167 votes—less than 17 hours after its release to the public.
The spending bill includes huge funding increases for border security, infrastructure, national defense, school safety and mental health. It also provides significant funding to fight the opioid epidemic.
During a press briefing, House Speaker Paul Ryan said the spending bill provides the “biggest increase in military funding in 15 years.” It offers the highest pay raise for troops in eight years. According to him, “We are rebuilding the American military and creating a 21st century fighting force.”
Trump is happy with spending bill, border security funding
When asked about the funding for the border wall, Speaker Ryan emphasized that the bill will fund the government for six months. It provides more allotment for border security than the request of the Trump administration.
Speaker Ryan said the border patrol determined where physical barriers are necessary. “That’s what we are funding here and we’re getting a good head start on it,” he said. He said President Donald Trump is “happy with it.”
