Senate advances bill to end government shutdown

On Sunday, the Senate took steps toward reopening the federal government and ending a 40-day shutdown that has left federal employees furloughed, disrupted food assistance programs, and caused major air travel delays.

In a procedural vote, senators advanced a House-approved bill, with a minority of Democrats joining Republicans to vote in favor of an agreement that could reopen the government through at least January.

As part of a deal, a December vote will be held to extend Affordable Care Act subsidies, reversing all layoffs of government employees and providing funding for SNAP benefits.

If the Senate ultimately approves the amended bill, it will still need to pass the House of Representatives and then be sent to President Donald Trump for his signature—a process that could take several days.