Normally passed with bipartisan support, the defense budget bill had amendments added by the House which will likely stall passage in the Senate, leading to a potential government shutdown. "Controversial provisions that were adopted to the House bill include: An amendment to prohibit the secretary of defense from paying for or reimbursing expenses relating to abortion services, an amendment that would bar a health care program for service members from covering hormone treatments for transgender individuals and gender confirmation surgeries, and a provision eliminating diversity, equity and inclusion programs and staff in the Department of Defense."

Senate votes to advance national defense bill

The Senate voted Tuesday evening to advance a critical national defense bill nearer to a final passage vote, moving one step closer to a showdown with the House over the must-pass legislation.