Congress back from recess

Congress returned from the traditional summer recess to a full plate of issues requiring attention. First was the debt ceiling that had a Sept. 29, 2017, deadline. President Trump negotiated directly with Democratic leaders for a three month extension to mid-December, although the Treasury Department may be able to finance the government beyond that date.

The next concern would be the possible Oct. 1, 2017, government shutdown. The federal fiscal year ends Sept. 30, 2017, and a spending bill, or extension of current spending, needs to be approved in advance. As with the debt ceiling extension, President Trump negotiated with Democratic leadership to approve a bill doubling hurricane aid and extending the federal borrowing limit to keep the government open until Dec. 8.