Congress has moved to prevent another federal government shutdown this fall, approving legislation that will keep the government funded at current levels through Dec. 11.
The House approved the short-term spending measure Tuesday by a vote of 370-48, with lawmakers from both parties joining together to support the legislation. The move pushes a potentially contentious funding battle beyond the upcoming midterm elections.
House Approves Short-Term Funding Bill
Federal funding was scheduled to expire on Sept. 30, creating the possibility of a shutdown just as voters prepare to head to the polls.
Instead, lawmakers opted for a temporary extension known as a continuing resolution, or CR. The measure largely maintains current spending levels while making limited exceptions.
The bipartisan House vote reflects broad support for avoiding a prolonged disruption to federal operations during the politically sensitive period leading up to the elections.
Senate Had Already Approved the Measure
The Senate previously passed the spending extension in August with strong bipartisan support.
With both chambers now having approved the legislation, the measure is headed to President Donald Trump, who is expected to sign it into law.
The White House had encouraged lawmakers to support the temporary funding plan, helping clear the way for Congress to avoid an immediate confrontation over federal spending.
Funding Fight Delayed Until After the Elections
Although the legislation removes the immediate threat of a shutdown, it does not resolve the broader disagreement over federal spending.
Instead, lawmakers have effectively postponed the next major funding deadline until December. That means Congress will have to return to negotiations after the midterm elections, when control of Washington and the political balance of power could be significantly different.
For now, the agreement gives federal agencies greater certainty and allows lawmakers to focus on the election season without a government shutdown dominating the political debate.
What Happens Next?
Once Trump signs the legislation, federal agencies will remain funded through Dec. 11.
Congress will then face another deadline to negotiate longer-term spending legislation. The postponed funding fight could become a major issue for lawmakers returning to Washington after the midterm elections.
