Senate approves bill to fund government into December, but House support remains uncertain

Key Points:

• The Senate approved a bipartisan continuing resolution by a 90-6 vote to fund the government through December 11, aiming to prevent a shutdown ahead of the midterm elections; the bill now moves to the House for consideration.
• The Senate measure maintains current funding levels with some exceptions and includes a provision closing a loophole to allow funds to be transferred to Border Patrol, a win for Democrats.
• A temporary ban on political appointees implementing a proposed federal grants rule in the bill may create challenges in the House, as Democrats want a permanent ban and some Republicans may oppose even a temporary measure.
• House Republicans previously passed a separate continuing resolution with Democratic opposition, and House Speaker Mike Johnson's decision on whether to adopt the Senate bill or pursue a different approach remains uncertain.
• With lawmakers aiming to avoid a third government shutdown in a year and the midterm elections approaching, there is broad reluctance to let funding lapse, but the House must act quickly after its August recess to finalize a funding plan.