US House Passes Funding Bill, Senate Vote Crucial To Prevent Shutdown

In a last-minute move to prevent a government shutdown, the US House of Representatives approved a bipartisan funding bill late Friday. The bill, which secures government operations until mid-March, now awaits a final decision in the Senate.

Key Details of the Funding Bill:

• House Vote Outcome: 366-34 in favor
• Deadline: Midnight Friday (0500 GMT)
• Support: Bipartisan, with 34 Republican backbenchers voting in favor
• Next Step: Senate approval before the midnight cutoff

The bill includes provisions for over $100 billion in aid targeting natural disaster victims and farmers.

Bipartisan Cooperation:

Despite the House being controlled by Republicans, the funding bill saw broad bipartisan backing. Prominent Democrat Bennie Thompson highlighted this cooperation:

“Today, Democrats stood firm in our commitment to collaboration, not division. The American people deserve a government that works for them.”

Shutdown Consequences if Senate Delays:

If the Senate fails to act before midnight:

• Up to 875,000 federal workers face furloughs.
• 1.4 million essential workers must work without pay.
• Key services like law enforcement, air traffic control, and airport screening will continue operating without salary payments.

The White House had already started preparing for a shutdown, notifying federal workers about potential furloughs.

Elon Musk’s Support for the Bill:

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk voiced his support for the funding package on X (formerly Twitter):

“The Speaker did a good job here, given the circumstances. It went from a bill that weighed pounds to a bill that weighed ounces.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson acknowledged Musk’s involvement, mentioning a productive conversation with him before the House vote.

Political Turmoil and Trump’s Influence:

The funding debate revealed the lingering influence of former President Donald Trump:

• Trump and Musk initially opposed an earlier version of the bill.
• Republican lawmakers abandoned a previously negotiated bipartisan deal.
• The revised funding package was adjusted to address Trump’s demands.

What Happens Next?

• The Senate must act swiftly to pass the funding bill before the midnight deadline.
• President Joe Biden is expected to sign the measure into law once it clears the Senate.

Conclusion:

The US House’s approval of the funding bill marks a critical step in avoiding a disruptive government shutdown. As the Senate prepares to vote, all eyes remain on lawmakers to ensure the continuation of federal operations and support for essential services.