US Senate approves initial funding package of $460 billion to avert government shutdown

The US Senate has approved a six-bill package of $460 billion to finance various federal government sectorsin time to meet a midnight deadlineuntil September, narrowly averting a partial shutdown.

The Senate on Friday approved a $460 billion package of spending bills for avoiding a shutdown of many key federal agencies.

The upper chamber voted 75 to 22, delivering the bill to President Joe Biden's desk just before the midnight deadline, with his expected signature on Saturday (March 9).

Republicans' insistence on amendment votes related to immigration and other measures slowed down the bill's progress, risking a final vote on Saturday after funding expiration.

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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the bipartisan effort and emphasised the positive impact on essential programmes, expressing optimism about completing the remaining appropriation bills by March 22.

Schumersaid the bill’s passage would allow the hiring of more air traffic controllers and rail safety inspectors, give federal firefighters a raise and boost support for homeless veterans, besides other things.

The House passed the package earlier in the week, relying on Democratic support to secure approval. Conservatives remained steadfast in opposing funding extensions that lacked preferred spending cuts and policy riders.

In a statement from the White House, the Office of Management and Budget confirmed the cessation of shutdown preparations, anticipating the bill's prompt signing by the President. The legislation covers agriculture, energy, environment, housing, transportation, veterans, and the Justice Department until the fiscal year's end on September 30.

Congress has until March 22 to pass the remaining six spending bills, including funding for Defense, State, and Homeland Security, which may prove more contentious. Successfully navigating this hurdle would resolve a recurring spending conflict, allowing Congress to focus on next year's appropriations bills.

Connecticut Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, expressed confidence in meeting the March 22 deadline, noting that the bills are progressing at various stages.

The current package includes cuts to several agencies, with Democrats securing victories in areas such as abortion access, infrastructure investments, veteran programmes, and full funding for the WIC nutrition programme for low-income women, infants, and children.

(With inputs from agencies)