US Senate Passes Bill to End Shutdown
The United States Senate approved a funding measure on Monday aimed at ending the federal government shutdown, currently the longest in US history. The vote was 60–40, with all but one Republican and eight Democrats voting in favour. The legislation now moves to the United States House of Representatives for approval.
What the Bill Does
The bill restores funding for federal agencies whose appropriations lapsed when the shutdown began on October 1. It ensures that federal employees will receive back pay and halts layoffs through January 30, 2026. It also extends key programmes like food assistance for vulnerable Americans.
What the Bill Doesn’t Guarantee
The bill does not guarantee an extension of health-insurance subsidies that benefit approximately 24 million Americans. A separate vote on that issue is scheduled for December. Until the House acts and the President signs the legislation, some government services will remain suspended or operating at reduced levels.
Significance
The vote marks a critical step toward reopening the government and easing disruption to public services, workers and families. But the January deadline and unresolved issues such as health coverage mean the budget battle is far from over.
