U.S. House cancels legislative sessions for late September

House leadership has announced the cancellation of legislative sessions for the final two weeks of September. The decision comes without a resolution on mass surveillance issues or the national debt, which has surpassed $40 trillion.

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer’s office stated that votes are not expected during the weeks of September 21st and September 28th, though members may be called back if the Senate adopts H. Con. Res. 113. In such a case, members would receive at least 48 hours’ notice.

House Speaker Mike Johnson defended the chamber’s progress, noting that hundreds of pieces of legislation have been passed. He attributed the recess to the upcoming midterm elections, stating that many members need time to campaign and work with constituents in their districts.