military aid

The U.S. Congress passed a .2 trillion budget bill early on Saturday, which keeps the government funded through the fiscal year that began six months ago, avoiding a partial shutdown. The bill was sent to President Joe Biden for his signature. The vote for passage was 74-24. The bill ensures funding for key federal agencies including the departments of Homeland Security, Justice, State, and Treasury through September 30. However, it did not include funding for military aid to Ukraine, Taiwan, or Israel. Senate leaders negotiated amendments to the budget bill, which were ultimately defeated. The White House Office of Management and Budget was confident the Senate would pass the bill. The bill provides 6 billion in funding for the Defense Department, including a raise for U.S. troops. The bill passed the House with a vote of 286-134, showing more Democratic support than Republican. The government had been funded with four short-term measures for most of the past six months. The bill is seen as a national security bill, with 70% of the funding for defense, including investments in military readiness and support for allies. Opponents criticized the bill as too expensive and inflationary. The last partial federal government shutdown occurred from Dec. 22, 2018, until Jan. 25, 2019.