Senate reaches deal to pass $1.7 trillion budget amid showdown over border policy

 The Senate overcame a logjam Thursday to fast-track a bipartisan $1.7 trillion government funding package to avoid a midnight Friday shutdown. Democrats and Republicans reached an agreement to pass the mammoth spending bill following demands from Sen. Mike Lee, Utah Republican, for a simple majority amendment vote to preserve Title 42 border policy

Lee wanted his amendment to pass by simple majority, rather than 60 votes

• It would slash Department of Homeland Security funding unless the Biden administration reinstates the Trump-era rule that has let millions of asylum seekers be turned away at the border amid the pandemic.
• Title 42 is expiring, prompting concerns from Republicans that the immigration crisis along the southern border will be exacerbated.

The Latest:

• Lee prevailed, with the two sides finally reaching a deal to allow votes on a series of changes in exchange for quickly passing the final bill.
• While Mr. Lee's amendment will require a simple majority, it is not expected to pass because the chamber will also vote on a similar Title 42 amendment from Sens. Jon Tester, Montana Democrat, and Kyrsten Sinema, Arizona independent.

https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2022/dec/22/senate-reaches-deal-pass-17-trillion-budget-amid-s/