The Senate Is Still Struggling To Reach A Deal On Zika Funding

WASHINGTON With just over two weeks to go until lawmakers leave for the campaign trail, the Senate has yet to reach a deal on coming up with funding for the Zika crisis or legislation to keep the government open.

There are ongoing discussions with the administration to put together a bill that would fund the government until Dec. 9, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) told reporters Tuesday. A $1.1 billion measure to address Zika, which causes microcephaly and other birth defects, is expected to be included.

“Nothing has been closed out yet,” McConnell said of negotiations. “I think we’re making good progress toward resolving all of the moving parts and ultimately we’ll move a [continuing resolution] that addresses Zika and other matters.” 

McConnell and other congressional leaders met with President Barack Obama on Monday to discuss a continuing resolution to fund the government and Zika programs. Health officials say they have exhausted all funding  to fight the virus.

Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he is cautiously optimistic that the Senate will be able to come to an agreement, but blamed Republicans for taking their time on proposing language.

“At this stage in negotiations everyone should understand we’ve only had talks,” Reid told reporters on Tuesday. “Discussions have gone on for a week; we don’t have an offer in writing.” 

Reid said Democrats thought “there was some light” late last week, until they learned a provision restricting funding for contraception providers would still be in the mix. That rider is a no-go for Democrats, who argue it targets Planned Parenthood.

“I thought we had something last Friday,” Reid said. “What stood in the way? The old famous Planned Parenthood.”

Democrats have no way of knowing what else could be included in the continuing resolution until they see the Republicans’ bill, Reid said.

“No one has negotiated with Republicans more than [Sen.] Patty Murray, and you could put a gun to her head right now and she couldn’t tell you what they’re trying to come up with,” Reid said.

A vote on a continuing resolution to fund the government and the Zika package could come as early as this week.