House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) has put forward a motion to move the House to conference with the Senate on three key appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026: Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, and Legislative Branch. This is the first time since Fiscal Year 2019 that regular appropriations bills could proceed to a conference committee.
The move signals renewed efforts in Congress to return to regular order in the appropriations process. The action comes as lawmakers face an upcoming government funding deadline.
Chairman Cole stated, “This vote is a notable milestone that will request to convene the first conference on major appropriations legislation in almost a decade. It’s an important step in strengthening both the institution and the results we deliver for the nation. As we reconcile differences, our approach is focused on investments that support our veterans, farmers and ranchers, and good governance—while upholding fiscal discipline and advancing the mandate of the American people. This is how Congress is supposed to function, and I am proud of the leadership in both chambers that has shown the discipline and determination to move us to this point. With a government funding deadline fast approaching, advancing these three bills to conference is meaningful progress, but much remains to be done. I stand with President Trump in pressing ahead on all fronts to keep the government open to continue implementation of the America First agenda.”
The development highlights congressional efforts toward finalizing appropriations before funding runs out.
