House Passes Line Item Veto (Sort of)

Earlier today, the House passed H R 3521 by a margin of 254-173. If passed through the Senate, this legislation would grant the President line item veto authority. However, that authority is slightly different from what most Americans think of when they envision a line item veto. 

For starters, the President does not have the authority to cut direct spending or budget authority in an appropriation measure which funds direct spending provided for in other law. Direct spending includes entitlements such as social security, Medicare, and Medicaid. In addition, the President has only 45 days from the enactment of the bill to propose the rescission.

Second, any rescission made by the President is sent back to be voted on in the House and Senate. After the legislation is sent back down with the proposed changes, the rules of the House and Senate are altered in dealing with that legislation to prevent any delay in its consideration.

Finally, the authority granted to the President to use this power is rescinded on December 15, 2015. By doing this, Congress ensures that the power will expire as either President Obama finishes his second term, or as the Republican President finishes his first term.