Leaders in the House and Senate are racing to prevent a shutdown at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that will begin at midnight unless Congress approves a funding bill.
The Senate late Friday approved by unanimous consent a continuing resolution [CR] that would fund DHS for one week, and Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he is “confident” the House would pass the bill before a partial government shutdown begins.
“Progress has been made all during the day. I appreciate… the cooperation of everyone involved. I’m confident the House will pass a seven-day CR tonight and there will be full funding for the Department of Homeland Security,” Reid said.
Leaders were forced to move to the one-week bill after a three-week version was defeated in the House earlier Friday in a stunning vote.
The bill failed 203-224, with 52 Republicans voting against legislation that was set to fund the DHS and its associated agencies through March 19. Twelve Democrats voted for it.
Good riddance. You can’t miss something you never wanted.