House Passes Funding Bill to Avert Government Shutdown
The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a six-month funding bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown, signaling confidence among Republicans despite the slim margin.
The House approved the measure on Tuesday, which would extend federal funding through September 30, 2025. This move comes ahead of a potential deadline that could otherwise lead to a shutdown. The bill now faces an uncertain future in the Senate, where Democratic support is not assured.
Key details of the funding bill include significant increases in defense spending and veterans’ health care funding, while non-defense programs face cuts below 2024 levels. The measure also includes a $13 billion reduction in non-defense spending, which has raised concerns among some Democrats.
The House’s move to pass the bill reflects a strategic effort to shift responsibility to the Senate, with only a few days remaining before the current funding period ends. Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized Republican confidence in their ability to avoid a shutdown, but Democrats have yet to commit to supporting the legislation.
The bill’s fate now hinges on the Senate, where Democratic senators may be pressured to provide the necessary votes. If they do not, the government could face a partial shutdown, impacting various federal agencies and programs.