Search people, articles, bills, and more
The Senate voted 90-8 to begin formal consideration of H.R. 3944. This bipartisan procedural step allows the chamber to move forward with debating the bill's contents.
This vote was a 'motion to proceed' to H.R. 3944. In the Senate, a motion to proceed is the formal mechanism used to bring a piece of legislation to the floor for debate. By agreeing to this motion, the Senate has decided to make H.R. 3944 its current focus of business. Procedurally, this type of vote acts as a gatekeeper. Before the Senate can discuss, amend, or pass a bill, it must first agree to take it up. While some procedural steps in the Senate require a supermajority of 60 votes to overcome a filibuster, this specific motion passed comfortably with a simple majority. The outcome means that H.R. 3944 is now officially before the Senate. Because the vote was 90-8, it demonstrates overwhelming bipartisan agreement that the bill is worthy of floor time. The Senate will now begin the process of debating the bill and considering potential changes before a final vote on whether to pass it into law.
The Senate will begin debate on the bill, which may include the introduction of amendments and further procedural votes before a final vote on passage.
Democrats. The Democratic caucus strongly supported the motion, with 41 members voting in favor and 4 voting against.
Republicans. The Republican caucus was almost entirely in favor, with 45 members voting yes and 4 voting no.
The Senate voted 90-8 to begin formal consideration of H.R.
3944. This bipartisan procedural step allows the chamber to move forward with debating the bill's contents.