Federal Appropriations Update
Progress is slow on negotiations related to the competing House and Senate spending allocations. House appropriators must still cut $15 billion in non-defense spending and increase defense spending by $5 billion in their appropriations measures. A continuing resolution (CR) funds the government at current levels through November 21. Emory has joined other organizations in calling for finalization of the FY20 appropriations bills. We remain watchful regarding the potential for a full-year CR, and concerned about any talk related a government shutdown.
Support for our International Scholars
On October 21, Emory and seven other private colleges in Georgia sent a letter to all the members of the Georgia congressional delegation outlining the impediments facing higher education in our efforts to attract and retain international students, faculty, and scholars. The letter outlines four actions that Congress can take to bolster the foreign talent pipeline important to Georgia’s colleges and universities.
Impeachment Process
Speaker Pelosi announced in September that the House would launch a formal impeachment inquiry into the allegation that President Trump pressured Ukraine to investigate former Vice President Joe Biden. The House is engaged in the investigation process, including issuing subpoenas to a number of individuals closely involved with the Trump Administration. The House Judiciary Committee is responsible for determining if the findings are sufficient and if they are, it moves to the House floor for a vote. If a majority of the House votes to impeach the President, the Senate will hold a trial. If two-thirds of the Senate vote to convict the President, then he is removed from office. This has become extremely polarizing in the nation’s capital and has the potential to prevent bipartisan legislation from moving, including funding the government past November 21. | 
