Search people, articles, bills, and more
The Senate rejected a motion to set aside budget rules for a specific amendment proposed by Senator Schumer. The motion failed on a 47-52 vote, meaning the amendment could not move forward in its current form.
This vote was on a "motion to waive" budget rules regarding Amendment No. 454. In the Senate, certain proposals that increase the deficit or violate specific spending limits can be blocked unless a sufficient number of senators agree to set those rules aside. This specific motion sought to bypass those fiscal restrictions to allow for the amendment's consideration. Procedurally, this is a method used when a proposed change to a bill conflicts with the Senate's established budget laws. By voting "yea," a senator supports ignoring those rules for this specific instance. By voting "nay," a senator prevents the proposal from proceeding, often citing concerns about fiscal discipline or the cost of the measure. The motion was rejected with 47 senators in favor and 52 opposed. This was a bipartisan result where both the Democratic and Republican caucuses were split on the issue. Because the motion failed, the underlying amendment remains blocked by budget rules and is effectively stopped from being added to the legislation.
The underlying amendment is likely ruled out of order, and the Senate will proceed with other business or different amendments to the bill.
Why it matters. This vote highlights the role of budget enforcement in the Senate, showing how fiscal rules can be used to halt specific policy changes regardless of party leadership support.
Who’s affected. Federal Budget Office: Maintains existing spending caps by preventing an amendment that would have violated budgetary limits.
Democrats. The Democratic caucus was divided, with 19 voting in favor and 25 voting against the motion.
Republicans. The Republican caucus was also split, with 25 members supporting the motion and 26 opposing it.
Feb 20, 2025
The Senate rejected a motion to set aside budget rules for a specific amendment proposed by Senator Schumer.
The motion failed on a 47-52 vote, meaning the amendment could not move forward in its current form.