The United States Senate approved this Monday (10) a procedural measure that paves the way to end the 41-day government shutdown, the longest in the country’s history. The advance occurred by 60 votes to 40, with the support of eight moderate Democratic to Republican senators. The legislation combines temporary funding through Jan. 30, 2026, and three annual budget bills for areas including agriculture, veterans and legislative operations.
The proposal includes reversing mass layoffs carried out during the shutdown and guaranteeing retroactive payment to furloughed employees. Democrats obtained a commitment for a later vote on extending Affordable Care Act tax credits. The text still returns to the House of Representatives for final approval before going to President Donald Trump for approval.
- Measure protects federal workers from additional cuts until January.
- Includes replenishment of funds for programs such as SNAP nutrition assistance.
- Provides reimbursement to states that maintained federal services with their own resources.
Senate vote
Eight Democrats broke the partisan blockade and voted with Republicans to overcome the 60-vote barrier. Senators such as Tim Kaine and Richard Durbin highlighted the need for immediate action in the face of air chaos and food risks.
The session took place on Sunday (9) evening and continued on Monday. Republican leader John Thune said the agreement prevents further collapse. Democrats criticizedthe absence of an immediate extension of health subsidies.
Impacts of the shutdown
More than 750,000 federal employees were laid off or worked without pay. Air traffic recorded thousands of daily cancellations due to lack of controllers. SNAP program faced suspension of benefits for 42 million Americans.
Economy could shrink in the fourth quarter if the impasse persists until Thanksgiving, on November 27th. White House advisors warned of negative growth. Airports operated with reductions of up to 10% in flights.
Legislative next steps
The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the package later this week. Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries promised resistance without full guarantees on health care. Trump indicated quick support for sanctioning immediate reopening.
Federal agencies prepare gradual return of services. Retroactive payments begin after presidential signature. Vote on Obamacare takes place in December.
Recorded economic effects
Estimated cost exceeds US$ 14 billion in the first month alone. GDP could lose up to 0.02% in the quarter. Markets reacted positivelywith the dollar falling this Monday.
Publication of economic data was suspended for weeks. The airline sector accumulates losses with 2,000 flights canceled in a single day. Retailers fear impacts on end-of-year sales.
Context of the impasse
The strike began on October 1 due to disagreements over budget cuts and health subsidies. Republicans rejected 14 previous proposals without concessions. Democrats demanded protection of the Affordable Care Act from expiration of benefits.
Trump used terminations to codify cuts via the Department of Government Efficiency. Negotiations intensified with threats of chaos over the holiday. Bipartisan agreement emerged after pressure from moderates.
Protective measures included
Proposal bars further mass layoffs until January. Guarantees back pay to 1.4 million essential workers who worked without pay. Restores funds for veterans and agriculture at full annual levels.
States receive reimbursement for maintaining federal programs. Air control gains priority for rapid normalization. Hemp and other controversial amendments were negotiated separately.
