The US Congress successfully passed a stopgap spending bill, preventing a government shutdown just days before federal agency funding was set to expire. The measure garnered overwhelming support in both the Senate, passing with an 87-11 vote, and the House, with a 336-95 vote, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
This bill extends funding for various agencies and programs, maintaining current levels until January 19, 2024, while extending support for others through February 2, 2024. Notably, it does not include the significant funding cuts that were urged by Republican conservatives.
A point of contention was the absence of additional aid for war-affected nations such as Israel and Ukraine, which stirred debate among lawmakers during the bill's passage.
The passage of this legislation is seen as an early achievement for Mike Johnson, who assumed the role of House Speaker in late October after a tumultuous three-week period during which Republicans faced challenges in finding a successor following Kevin McCarthy's historic ouster.
The next step for the bill is President Joe Biden's desk, where it is expected to be signed into law promptly.
(With Agency Inputs)
ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden Brushes Off Polls Indicating Trump Lead
ALSO READ | US: Secret Service Fires to Thwart Car Break-In Targeting Presiden Biden's Granddaughter
