The Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives passed a short-term continuing resolution on Tuesday to avert a possible government shutdown. The measure, which passed by a vote of 220-205 roughly along party lines, would authorize spending for federal agencies through December 4.
Lawmakers are seeking to keep the government open past the November midterm elections to avoid a volatile issue during the election season. This effort aims to prevent a third shutdown since last September, as funding for most federal agency programs is scheduled to expire at midnight on September 30, marking the end of the current fiscal year.
The stopgap funding measure now heads to the Senate, where it faces an uncertain future and potential obstacles. Senate Republican leaders are exploring their own short-term funding bill in negotiations with Democrats, and the measure may face demands for changes before it can win the bipartisan support needed to clear the chamber.