House Passes Short-Term Bill to Prevent US Government Shutdown
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a stopgap spending bill to prevent a government shutdown, setting new deadlines for the passage of appropriations bills. The continuing resolution extends funding to keep the government operational until March 8, for certain departments, with the remaining departments funded until March 22. This move allows more time for Congress to finalize a full-year spending plan for fiscal year 2024.
In a 320-99 vote, with a notable number of Republicans, including members of the House Freedom Caucus, voting against it, the House agreed to a bipartisan plan that was the result of negotiations between leaders from both parties. The bill encompasses funding for various agencies under the Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, Justice and Commerce Departments, science, energy and water development, Department of Interior, military construction, and the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development.
Next week, Congress is expected to vote on six of the 12 appropriations bills, with the remaining bills to be addressed by the second March deadline. The Senate is anticipated to pass the stopgap measure before it reaches President Joe Biden, who is expected to sign it into law. This temporary measure reflects a strategic shift from previous Republican approaches, favoring separate votes on appropriations bills and advocating for spending cuts.
