Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer announced today that the U.S. Senate will work on a temporary funding bill aimed at preventing a partial government shutdown. Congress must pass spending legislation before the new fiscal year begins on October 1, or face the potential furlough of thousands of federal workers and the shutdown of numerous government services.
“Time is not a luxury that Congress has right now,” Schumer stated on the Senate floor. Senate lawmakers will dedicate the coming days to negotiating a deal that both Democrats and Republicans can support.
On Wednesday, the House of Representatives failed to pass a bill that would have combined six months of funding with controversial election-law changes opposed by Democrats. In response, House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated he would pursue an alternative strategy, though no specifics have been provided.
A key sticking point between the parties remains the length of the temporary funding extension. Republicans favor a six-month extension, delaying the issue until next spring, while Democrats are pushing for a shorter three-month extension, requiring action before year-end.
A prolonged extension could negatively affect government operations, particularly agencies like the Department of Defense, which would be unable to start new projects.
Negotiations continue as lawmakers strive to reach an agreement before the impending deadline.
