House Republicans release text of Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan aid bills

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on Wednesday published the text of proposed legislation to provide billions in aid to Israel, Ukraine, and U.S. allies in the Asia-Pacific region. A fourth bill to address U.S. national security concerns, including securing the southern border, was expected to be published later on Wednesday. The bills’ publication triggers a 72-hour clock, forcing house members to vote on them by Saturday evening.

What do the bills do? The bill for Israel would provide roughly $26.4 billion to the country, and help replenish its Iron Dome missile defense system, according to a summary provided by the House Appropriations Committee. The bill supporting Ukraine would provide roughly $60 billion that would, in part, be used to provide more weapons and ammunition to Kyiv and would implement a plan requiring Ukraine to repay the United States for the assistance. The Asia-focused bill provides roughly $8 billion to counter Chinese influence in the region. It specifically increases efforts to deter the People’s Republic of China from invading Taiwan.

Who supports the bills? President Joe Biden on Wednesday afternoon endorsed Johnson’s aid packages to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. He urged the House and the Senate to pass the bills, and said he would sign the bills into law if they came to his desk. Meanwhile, the House Freedom Caucus has largely opposed the proposed bills. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., Wednesday afternoon criticized the bills, saying they included nothing for the American people. Rep. Dan Bishop, R-N.C., also said he would oppose the bill, calling it a betrayal of Americans who want to secure the U.S. southern border.