The Approval of Short-Term Spending Bill Averts Government Shutdown
In a significant development, the House of Representatives approved a short-term spending bill on Saturday afternoon, passing with a strong majority of 335-91. Later that night, the Senate also passed the bill with 88 yeas to 9 nays.
Ensuring Continued Government Funding
The passage of this bill brought relief and applause among members of Congress as it successfully averted a potential government shutdown. The bill provides funding for the government for an additional 45 days, ensuring its continued operation.
Disaster Relief and Omission of Ukraine Aid
In addition to government funding, the approved bill authorizes $16 billion in disaster relief. However, it does not include relief for Ukraine, which drew objection from Senator Bennet, a Democrat.
Progress on Aid to Ukraine
Despite the absence of Ukraine relief in the bill, Senator Bennet expressed optimism about progress made in providing aid to Ukraine. He highlighted efforts to cooperate with members of both parties in ensuring strong bipartisan support for fully funding Ukraine.
The Speaker’s Lobby: Navigating a Potential Government Shutdown
Highlighting the significance of this development, Senator Bennet remarked, “It’s worked out because we were able to get a statement from the leadership that’s going to be released soon, talking about the bipartisan support for fully funding Ukraine and making sure that we fulfill a role that the entire world is relying on us to fulfill.”
Commitment to Aid Ukraine
Senator Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, emphasized the importance of providing uninterrupted aid to Ukraine. She anticipated a substantial fight on this matter and assured the public that it remained their primary focus to support Ukraine in the face of ongoing conflict with Russian troops.
Government Shutdown Would Undermine Biden Administration’s Economic Progress: Yellen
Had the bill been rejected by the Senate, thousands of federal employees would have faced furloughs, and various “nonessential” government programs would have experienced an indefinite pause.
