Congress has agreed to extend government funding through Dec. 20, avoiding a shutdown that was scheduled for Sept. 30. The deal, known as a continuing resolution, is expected to pass in both the House and Senate and be signed by President Joe Biden. Lawmakers will have to negotiate a longer-term deal after the presidential election, setting up another political battle.
House Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted the importance of avoiding a shutdown just weeks before the election, calling it an “act of political malpractice.” The deal does not include a controversial voting legislation requiring proof of citizenship, which Democrats argued would make it harder for millions of Americans to vote.
The agreement includes $231 million in additional funding for the U.S. Secret Service, following two recent incidents involving threats to former President Donald Trump. During a government shutdown, essential federal workers continue to work while nonessential employees are furloughed. Key benefits programs like Social Security and Medicare would continue, but services like national parks, passport assistance, and childcare programs would be impacted.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the delay in reaching an agreement, blaming Speaker Johnson for wasting time. While the deal avoids a shutdown for now, lawmakers will have to address the issue again in December, after the election.
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