Tuesday: trade, transportation

Senators are expected to restart the debate on the trade legislation, which would allow the president to get trade agreements approved by Congress on a simple majority vote, around 11 a.m. 

 

{mosads}Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said Monday that he expects to finish the trade legislation, as well as separate highway and surveillance bills before senators leave for the Memorial Day recess at the end of the week. 

“The Senate will finish its work on trade this week, and we will remain in session as long as it takes to do so,” he said. “I would advise against making any sort of travel arrangements until the path forward becomes clear.” 

As of Monday evening more than a hundred amendments had been filed to the trade bill. 

Senators are also expected to recess from 12:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. for weekly party lunches. 

Meanwhile, the House will take up a two-month extension of federal transportation funding ahead of an end-of-the-month deadline. 

Lawmakers are expected to pass the short-term extension before they leave for the Memorial Day recess, giving themselves more time to try to find a longer solution.  

The House will also continue work on the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act, which would increase resources for law enforcement and trafficking victims. 

First votes in the House are expected between 1:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m., with last votes between 5:15 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.