Architect of the Capitol
Obama Signs Bill Pushing Back Shutdown Deadline 5 Days
The continuing resolution gives lawmakers some time to finalize omnibus spending bill.
With the hope that they can pass a longer-term plan next week, Congress on Friday sent a short-term spending bill to the White House for President Obama's signature, according to The Associated Press. The bill keeps the government open until Wednesday. Obama signed the bill Friday evening.
The plan was approved by a voice vote Friday, ahead of a midnight deadline that would have resulted in a government shutdown if Congress hadn't acted. Lawmakers expressed optimism that a longer-term deal could be struck by Wednesday.
"I believe we're making good progress on a final-year package," said Rep. Hal Rogers, R-Ky., chairman of the House Appropriations Committee.
A shutdown could still occur if lawmakers do not come to an agreement by Wednesday. Several lawmakers are looking to protect feds in the event that happens, and agencies have started dusting off their shutdown plans.
This story was updated to note that the president signed the bill into law.