The US Senate on Thursday passed a stopgap funding bill to avert a government shutdown.
The bill, which has to clear both chambers and head to Biden’s desk for a signature before midnight Friday, will fund the government through December 16.
The funding bill also includes $12.3 billion for Ukraine.
Because why not?
Reuters reported:
In addition to money for federal agencies, the funding bill includes $12.3 billion in new money to help Ukraine turn back Russia’s invasion. The aid includes both military and economic assistance.
The bill also authorizes Biden to direct the drawdown of up to $3.7 billion for the transfer to Ukraine of excess weapons from U.S. stocks.
Amid reports of Russian forces threatening the safety of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants and Russian President Vladimir Putin hinting he might use nuclear weapons against Ukraine, the legislation would appropriate $35 million “to prepare for and respond to potential nuclear and radiological incidents in Ukraine,” according to a bill summary.
U.S. Senate PASSES Continuing Resolution to fund government through December 16, 72-25.
Goes now to the House. pic.twitter.com/9bS2SYmVOX
— CSPAN (@cspan) September 29, 2022
If a deal isn’t reached by the Friday midnight deadline, the Democrats will own the shutdown since they control both chambers of Congress and the White House.
“I’m glad we came to a timely conclusion and didn’t go right up to the brink and risk a shutdown. Millions and millions of people can breathe easy,” Schumer said.
WATCH:
.@SenSchumer: “For the information of the Senate, there will be two roll call votes at 1:45pm. The first vote will be on the passage of the Continuing Resolution to fund the government through December 16.” pic.twitter.com/ygGr4pXARE
— CSPAN (@cspan) September 29, 2022
