A. Rahman
A partial shutdown of the federal government began early Saturday after Congress failed to finalize a full funding agreement before the midnight deadline, even though the U.S. Senate approved a major bipartisan funding package late Friday. The bill now heads to the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, which is not expected to consider it until Monday, nearly two days after funding lapsed.
The Senate passed the funding plan by a 71-29 bipartisan vote, sending most of the federal budget bills to the House. Under the compromise, funding for all major federal agencies through September will continue, with the exception of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Senators agreed to provide only a two-week extension at current levels for DHS so lawmakers have additional time to negotiate contested policy changes related to immigration enforcement.
This marks the second time in recent weeks that lawmakers have dragged out fiscal negotiations to the brink. The immediate effects of the shutdown are expected to be limited at first, since many agencies already have plans for orderly shutdown procedures that determine essential operations and furloughed staff. However, departments that lose funding will stop non-essential activities until money is reinstated.
Senate leaders and the White House struck the deal amid growing political pressure, including heightened public concern following the fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. That incident pushed some Senate Democrats to withhold support for long-term DHS funding until changes are negotiated. The compromise reached with Republicans separates DHS from the broader spending agreement, giving both parties room to pursue reforms in coming weeks.
The deadline drama unfolded despite lawmakers’ best efforts to advance multiple appropriations bills earlier in the week. Republican opposition by some conservative senators delayed proceedings, and the House adjourned before the Senate could complete its final passage vote, leaving a temporary funding gap in place. The House is scheduled to reconvene Monday, when it will take up the Senate-approved package.
Political leaders in both parties encouraged a quick resolution once the House acts, with majority voices saying they hope to avoid a prolonged shutdown that could disrupt services and delay pay for federal workers. Discussions continue over policy provisions and whether the Senate’s deal will be amended before final passage.
Summary:
A partial federal government shutdown began after funding expired at midnight Saturday, even though the U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan government funding deal late Friday by a 71-29 vote. The Senate’s package keeps most agencies funded but only offers a short extension for the Department of Homeland Security while lawmakers continue to negotiate reforms. The bill is now in the House, which is expected to act when it returns Monday.
