Jorge Castro, former Counselor to the IRS Commissioner and former Congressional tax counsel, commented on Congress's efforts to prevent a government shutdown and the likelihood of a year-end tax bill. With Congress returning from a long break in the week of September 9, the focus will be on how to avoid a shutdown by September 30, the end of the fiscal year. The method chosen, particularly if it involves a continuing resolution (CR) to extend funding into the end of 2024, could impact a potential year-end tax package. Castro highlighted that a potential bill isn't likely dead yet, noting the current political context and the possibility of legislative action post-election. "I think both parties are seeing it from that [hyper-political] lens and what's going to help or not help with their political objectives for the November elections." But political considerations could be less of a factor after the November elections, Castro said.