On November 14, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a stopgap spending bill that would avert a government shutdown. The bill passed on a bipartisan basis with a vote of 336 to 95.
The bill would keep the government funded through early next year while Congress debates spending. It would also provide additional funding for disaster relief and Ukraine.
The bill now heads to the Senate, which is expected to pass it before Friday’s deadline. President Joe Biden has said that he will sign the bill into law.
The passage of the bill comes as a relief to many Americans who were concerned about the possibility of a government shutdown. A shutdown would have furloughed millions of federal workers and closed many government agencies. It would have also had a ripple effect on the economy.
“I’m glad that we were able to come together to pass this bill and avert a government shutdown,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson. “This is a victory for the American people.”
The passage of the bill is a sign that Congress can work together to address important issues. It is also a reminder of the importance of funding the government.
The stopgap bill is a temporary solution, and Congress will need to pass a full-year spending bill in the coming months. However, the passage of this bill is a positive step forward.