Partial US Gov’t shutdown begins as funding expires despite Senate deal

A partial shutdown of the United States federal government began at 12 a.m. on Saturday after funding lapsed for dozens of federal agencies, despite a bipartisan spending agreement approved by the Senate.

The Senate passed a funding package late on Friday following weeks of negotiations, but the measure still requires approval from the House of Representatives, which is not expected to return to Washington until Monday.

Democrats and the White House reached a deal on Thursday after Democrats raised concerns about funding levels for immigration agencies. The agreement would see five long-term spending bills enacted, while funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be extended for two weeks to allow further talks on immigration enforcement reforms.

Earlier on Friday, the Senate voted on the final passage of the funding deal after debating several amendments. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, who had previously objected to fast-tracking the agreement, said he would allow it to move forward.

If the House completes action on the plan early next week, the effects of the partial shutdown are expected to be limited. Lawmakers in Washington have shown little appetite for a prolonged shutdown akin to the 43-day closure in the autumn.