Jean MartinThe vote gets legislators halfway home in wrapping up their budget work for the 2024 budget year.
The US government narrowly avoided a partial shutdown as senators approved a $460 billion package of spending bills just hours before a midnight deadline that would have halted many key federal agencies.
Bipartisan Approval of Funding Bills
The Senate’s approval of the six funding bills, previously passed by the House in a bipartisan vote, marks progress in wrapping up appropriations work for the 2024 budget year. The package received a solid vote of 75-22 in the Senate.
Next Steps and Deadline
The approved package now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law. Meanwhile, lawmakers are engaged in negotiations for a second package of six bills, including defense, aiming to fully fund all federal agencies by a deadline of March 22.
Impact of Shutdown Aversion
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the positive outcomes of the bill’s passage, including the hiring of additional air traffic controllers, rail safety inspectors, raises for federal firefighters, and increased support for unhoused veterans.
Potential Consequences of Shutdown
Had the shutdown occurred, funding would have been paused for several key departments, impacting vital services and programs.
Also read: Biden’s climate agenda under scrutiny ahead of election year
Senator Susan Collins emphasized the importance of preventing a shutdown to ensure continued support for veterans and other Americans in need.
Calls for Unity and Service
Senator Collins urged her colleagues to prioritize the needs of the American people and avoid disruptions to government services.
She emphasized the importance of keeping government agencies operational to serve the nation effectively.
The avoidance of a partial shutdown reflects bipartisan cooperation in Congress to address funding challenges and ensure the smooth functioning of federal agencies for the benefit of all Americans.
