The US Senate on Sunday approved a comprehensive funding package aimed at ending the longest government shutdown in the nation’s history, following a key procedural vote that passed 60-40 — the exact threshold required to advance the legislation.

The legislation allocates funding for the 2026 fiscal year to several critical federal agencies and programs, including the operations of Congress and its support services, the Department of Agriculture (including SNAP food assistance), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), veterans’ programs and benefits, and Pentagon construction projects. Other government operations will continue under a temporary continuing resolution, extending funding through January 30, 2026.

The package also includes measures to halt the mass layoffs of federal employees that began on October 1 due to the funding lapse, providing immediate relief to thousands of workers affected by the shutdown.

The bipartisan agreement was reached after at least eight centrist Senate Democrats struck a compromise with Republican leaders and the White House. As part of the deal, Democrats secured a commitment for a future vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies.

Following Senate approval, the legislation will proceed to the House of Representatives for final passage before being sent to President Donald Trump for his signature.

The passage of the funding bill marks a significant step toward ending the unprecedented disruption of federal operations that has lasted for over a month, affecting government services and employees nationwide. (ILKHA)