The US Senate has taken a big step to end the country’s longest government shutdown, which started on October 1 and has lasted 40 days.
Senators voted 60–40 to move a funding bill forward. If passed, it will keep the government running until January 30, 2026, pay federal workers who missed salaries, and reimburse states for running programs during the shutdown.
Eight Democrats joined Republicans to support the bill, showing a split in the party.
One key issue remains: health insurance subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Democrats want them extended, but Republicans want to focus first on reopening the government. A vote on healthcare is expected in December.
The shutdown has caused major problems: flights were canceled, food-aid programs delayed, and many workers went without pay.
The bill now goes to the House and the President. If approved, government services will resume and federal workers will get back pay.
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