WASHINGTON (Reuters) — The U.S. Senate on Sunday took a major step toward ending the 40-day federal government shutdown that has disrupted essential services, grounded federal employees, and strained air travel operations nationwide.
In a key procedural vote, senators advanced a funding measure already approved by the House of Representatives. The legislation is expected to be amended to finance government operations through January 30 and include three full-year spending bills.
Once the U.S. Senate finalizes and passes the amended bill, it will return to the House for approval before heading to President Donald Trump’s desk for his signature—a process that could still take several days.
Compromise on ACA Subsidies Shapes Deal
As part of a compromise with a small group of Democrats who broke ranks with their party leadership, Republicans agreed to hold a December vote on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies. These subsidies, a major Democratic priority, help low-income Americans afford private health insurance and are set to expire at year’s end.
The motion to advance the bill passed narrowly, 60–40—the exact number needed to overcome a Senate filibuster.
“It looks like we’re getting very close to the shutdown ending,” President Trump said before the vote at the White House.
Federal Workforce Protections Included in Proposal
The proposal includes a ban on federal agencies firing employees until January 30, seen as a victory for federal workers’ unions and their allies. The provision also temporarily halts Trump’s broader push to shrink the federal workforce.
According to official data, about 2.2 million civilians were employed by the federal government at the beginning of Trump’s second term, though roughly 300,000 are expected to leave by the end of this year as part of the downsizing initiative. The bill also promises back pay for all furloughed federal workers, including members of the military, air traffic controllers, and Border Patrol agents.
Next Steps in Senate Proceedings
When the U.S. Senate reconvenes on Monday, Republican leaders will aim for a bipartisan agreement to fast-track the bill’s passage. Without such cooperation, procedural delays could push a final vote into next weekend.
“It was a good vote tonight,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune after adjournment. “Hopefully, we’ll get a chance tomorrow to set up the next steps—but that will depend on cooperation and consent.”
Key Lawmakers Broker Breakthrough Deal
The breakthrough deal was reportedly brokered by Democratic Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, along with independent Senator Angus King of Maine.
“For over a month, I’ve made clear that my priorities are to reopen the government and extend the ACA premium tax credits. This is the best path to achieve both,” Shaheen wrote on X.
However, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer opposed the measure, drawing criticism from some Democrats who viewed the compromise as a setback.
“Senator Schumer is no longer effective and should be replaced,” Representative Ro Khanna wrote on X. “If you can’t lead the fight to stop healthcare premiums from skyrocketing, what will you fight for?”
U.S. Shutdown Fallout Hits Services and Travel
The prolonged shutdown—now the longest in U.S. history—has closed national parks, halted food assistance programs, and disrupted air travel, with air traffic controller shortages raising concerns about potential chaos during the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday rush.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina said the growing economic and logistical fallout forced lawmakers to act. “Temperatures cool, the atmospheric pressure rises, and suddenly it looks like things might come together,” he remarked.
Economic Risks Loom Amid Shutdown
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett warned that if the shutdown continues much longer, it could drag fourth-quarter economic growth into negative territory—especially if flight disruptions persist through Thanksgiving, which falls on November 27 this year.
Trump Reiterates Opposition to ACA Subsidies
Meanwhile, President Trump reiterated his opposition to the current ACA subsidy system, urging U.S. Congress to redirect those funds directly to individuals.
He called the existing subsidies “a windfall for health insurance companies and a disaster for the American people,” posting on Truth Social that he’s ready to work with both parties “once the government is open.”
Health Experts Warn of Rising Premiums
Health policy experts estimate that, without congressional action, average monthly premiums for 2026 ACA plans could more than double as pandemic-era subsidies expire. The open enrollment period runs through January 15, leaving U.S. Congress limited time to extend the benefits before they lapse.
Input from Reuters
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