Lawmakers have reached a consensus on a short-term spending agreement to avoid a partial government shutdown. This interim measure, known as a continuing resolution, will provide funding for certain government operations until March 8, with the remainder funded until March 22.
The aim is to grant legislators more time to finalize a comprehensive funding deal for the government.
Alongside this short-term resolution, there’s a plan to address six of the 12 spending bills required for government funding within the next week, by March 8.
Subsequently, efforts will focus on reaching a long-term agreement for the remaining government functions by the extended deadline of March 22.
House vote possible on thursday
The House may vote on the legislation as early as Thursday. It’s anticipated that the majority, if not all, House Democrats will support the deal. However, it’s likely to face criticism from ultraconservative Republicans, who have opposed the previous three short-term extensions passed by Congress.
The bill is also anticipated to pass smoothly in the Senate, where both Democratic and Republican leaders have been aligned in avoiding a partial government shutdown. Prepare for the polls: Explore the presidential candidates and compare their stances on key issues in our Voter Guide. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed optimism on Wednesday morning, stating, “We continue to make very good progress on an agreement, and we are very close to getting it done,” on the Senate floor before the deal’s announcement.
Deal follows Biden’s meet
This deal to avert shutdown follows after President Joe Biden hosted a meeting at the White House earlier this week, bringing together the top four congressional leaders to discuss government funding and foreign aid to key U.S. allies like Ukraine.
Following the meeting, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., left with a sense of optimism that Congress could steer clear of a shutdown.
The road ahead for achieving long-term government funding remains uncertain. This continuing resolution marks Congress’ fourth extension since the initial deadline of September 30 last year, underscoring the brinkmanship among the nation’s leaders.
Certain portions of government funding are scheduled to expire on March 1, while the remainder is set to lapse on March 8.
Shutdown’s prominent play in US Politics
During a government shutdown, all officials and federal agencies not considered “essential” are required to halt their operations and close their doors. This results in thousands of federal employees being placed on furlough.
“Essential” federal workers, such as air traffic controllers and emergency personnel in national parks, continue to work without pay during the shutdown, although they are typically compensated retroactively once the shutdown concludes. However, subcontractors for the government may face job loss without the prospect of receiving back pay.
The impact of a shutdown extends beyond federal employees, affecting everyday Americans as well. For instance, delays in food assistance benefits can occur, and certain food safety inspections may be suspended.