Republicans have now pushed the United States to within one month of a catastrophic and unprecedented default on the nation’s existing obligations. Instead of passing a clean debt limit bill to avert this crisis, their continued threats to cause a default could trigger a massive recession that would cost 8.3 million Americans their jobs.

The longer the GOP delays in paying our bills, the more likely they are to drive up the cost of mortgages and threaten people’s retirement savings. The debt ceiling is not a bargaining chip, and Congress must act to cover existing obligations before the American people start to pay the cost of a default crisis.

Republican proposals on debt prioritization would not prevent a U.S. default on its bills, but would likely cause major legal, administrative, and economic disruption. Debt prioritization involves paying some federal bills ahead of others. It’s the Republican answer to get around the default crisis they are creating by refusing to raise the debt ceiling. House Republicans’ so-called Default Prevention Act would codify this reckless approach and prioritize foreign bondholders over funding vital government programs for seniors, veterans, and basic government functions. The plan would be unworkable for the Treasury, invite legal challenges that would disrupt payments, and put the country’s credit rating at risk.

The GOP Default on America Act’s 22% spending cut would slash nearly $17 billion in funding for federal law enforcement, courts, and prisons that support public safety. Republicans are gambling with Americans’ safety by threatening to not raise the debt limit.

The United States has some of the most diverse wildlife and habitats on Earth. Conserving this biodiversity is imperative to the health of our planet.

The Recovering America’s Wildlife Act (RAWA) would protect America’s biodiversity through proactive conservation, keeping thousands of animals from being listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). By investing in RAWA, the United States can avoid costly species recovery efforts and continue to support habitat restoration efforts, reaping environmental and economic benefits. RAWA would also support the wildlife and outdoor recreation industries that provide economic opportunities in many rural and Tribal areas.