Senate approves bill to fund government into December

The U.S. Senate has passed a crucial stopgap funding bill, approving a continuing resolution that will keep the federal government operational through December 11. The bipartisan measure, which passed with an overwhelming 90-6 vote, ensures funding at current levels for six weeks beyond the September 30 fiscal year deadline.

This legislative action is a key step in Congress's effort to avert a government shutdown as the midterm elections approach this fall. The Senate's bipartisan approach, spearheaded by top Republican and Democratic appropriators, aimed to secure broad support, a necessity given the 60-vote threshold for advancing most legislation in the chamber.

The approved bill includes several provisions, with Democrats highlighting a clause that closes a loophole preventing the administration from transferring funds to Border Patrol. This was a point of contention earlier in the year when Democrats initially refused to fund immigration enforcement agencies.

“

any poison pills

However, a provision temporarily barring political appointees from implementing a proposed rule on federal grants could still create hurdles in the House. Democrats have voiced concerns that this rule could allow the administration to cancel grants and "take even more federal funding hostage." While the Senate bill now heads to the House, which returns from recess later this month, its path forward may depend on whether House Speaker Mike Johnson prioritizes the Senate's bipartisan effort or faces pressure from within his own conference.

Lawmakers are rushing to finalize funding plans before their August recess. The House is scheduled to reconvene on August 31, leaving a narrow window to reconcile differences and pass a comprehensive budget before the looming deadline.

“

take even more federal funding hostage