Government Shutdown Nearing End as Senators Reach Funding Deal
The longest US government shutdown in history may finally end as Senators reach a deal to extend funding through January 30.
Key Developments
- Bipartisan agreement reached after 40+ day shutdown
- Funding extension through January 30
- Support for federal employees and SNAP benefits
- Affordable Care Act vote scheduled for December
Republican Senator John Thune confirmed that a spending deal with Democrats was “coming together,” according to NYT reports. The breakthrough could reopen government operations after the longest shutdown in US history.
Axios reports that up to 10 Democrats will support advancing a package of spending bills and short-term funding measures. The comprehensive deal includes crucial support measures for Americans affected by the shutdown.
Key Provisions in the Deal
The agreement contains several important elements:
- Support for federal employees laid off during the shutdown
- Guaranteed SNAP (food assistance) benefits until September 30
- Scheduled Senate vote in December on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits
- The ACA extension requires 60 votes to pass
A senior White House official told Axios: “The President and the White House have maintained since day one that we want the government open. This appears to be a good way to accomplish that goal.”
