The Senate has successfully passed a bill to conclude the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
This shutdown, which began on October 1, has significantly impacted the nation, causing disruptions in federal workers’ pay and benefits for millions. The travel sector has also faced challenges, with thousands of domestic flights canceled and even more experiencing delays over the weekend.
The deadlock emerged due to a failure of agreement between Republicans and Democrats on a new funding bill after the expiration of the previous federal budget.
The government has been partially closed for 41 days, surpassing the 35-day shutdown from November 5, 2018.
The previous instance of a shutdown also took place during Donald Trump’s presidency.
However, the current situation appears to be nearing a resolution following a vote in favor of a crucial new funding bill.
A majority of Republicans, along with eight Democrats, supported the bill in a 60-40 vote that occurred late on Monday, November 10.
The newly passed deal will finance the federal government until January 30, averting an extended shutdown period.
Additionally, it secures full-year funding for the Department of Agriculture, military construction, and Congress.
Federal employees will receive retroactive pay for the shutdown period, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), aiding one in eight Americans with food assistance, will continue to be funded through the coming September.
The legislative package also includes a provision for a December vote on extending healthcare subsidies set to expire this year.
These subsidies are crucial for millions of Americans to afford insurance via the government marketplace, a significant Democratic concern prior to agreeing on new government funding.
More updates to follow