Johnson Calls for Immediate House Return Amid Air Delay Shutdown Threat

House Speaker Mike Johnson is urging lawmakers to return to Washington promptly to address government funding amid an escalating air travel crisis. He emphasized the urgency of voting on a funding package that would sustain the government until January 30.

Flight Delays Impact Legislative Schedule

Johnson stated that he would call House members back to the Capitol “the very moment” the Senate completes its final vote on the funding package. The House will receive a revised notice period of 36 hours, down from the previously mentioned 48 hours. This adjustment aims to expedite the voting process.

However, significant air travel disruptions caused by staffing shortages threaten to complicate the return of lawmakers. Johnson recognized that House Republicans can only afford to lose two votes if all members are present, creating a precarious situation should any absences occur.

Recent Voting Challenges

In recent legislative actions, two Republicans voted against the initial version of the funding bill when it passed through the House on September 19, despite receiving support from one Democrat.

Current Air Travel Situation

• As of Sunday, nearly half of all domestic flights were canceled or delayed.
• FlightAware reports indicate that over 1,000 flights have already been affected in the coming days.
• Travel disruptions are attributed mainly to staffing shortages in the airline industry.

Johnson described the disruption as a “very serious situation.” He urged all members to return to Washington without delay. “You need to begin right now returning to the Hill,” Johnson added, stressing the necessity for swift action.

Senate Delays Affecting Vote

In a recent development, a Senate vote was delayed for several hours as lawmakers awaited the arrival of Republican Senator John Cornyn from Texas. Cornyn’s flight delays prevented him from casting the crucial vote needed to meet the 60-vote threshold for the bill’s advancement.

As the government shutdown looms closer, both Republican and Democratic lawmakers face mounting pressure to resolve these issues promptly. Johnson’s call to action underlines the critical need for quick legislative responses amidst ongoing travel disruptions.