End of Year Legislative Sprint

Dec. 4, 2020 – According to the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA), congressional leaders and appropriators are working to find consensus on a legislative package that provides more than $1.4 trillion in funding for federal agencies before the Dec. 11 deadline. Right after Thanksgiving, Appropriations Chairman Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) and Chairwoman Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.) found agreement on the topline funding numbers for agencies, giving more certainty to negotiators who are putting pen to paper on the legislative text. NSSGA is hearing that 95% of the package has been finalized. Momentum has gained surrounding the negotiations for a potential COVID-19 relief bill, but this is becoming enmeshed with the appropriations work, causing delays. There is some concern that lawmakers may not be able to meet next Friday’s deadline, which could force the need for a continuing resolution. The next few days will be critical to shaping the remainder of the legislative year plays out, and you can be certain NSSGA is staying engaged to push our priorities over the finish line.