Late Monday night, the Senate passed a federal funding measure to reopen the government by a vote of 60 to 40. The measure includes:
- FY 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies appropriations;
- FY 2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies appropriations;
- $1.7 billion for affordable housing rental assistance for low-income families and seniors in rural communities.
- FY 2026 Legislative Branch appropriations; and
- a continuing resolution (CR) to fund the rest of the government until January 30.
- The CR includes language to reverse any reductions in force of federal employees that happened during the shutdown, guarantees back pay, and prevents further federal layoffs through the end of FY 2026.
Seven democrats and one independent voted with Republicans in exchange for a Senate vote on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits by the second week of December. This informal deal is not part of the legislative text.
What’s Next: The bills head to the House floor today for a final vote after passing through the House Rules Committee last night. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) called members back to Washington on an expedited schedule—faster than the usual 36 hours—to ensure a prompt vote to end the government shutdown.
