Congress Races to Avoid a Government Shutdown

Lawmakers want to keep the government open. They are making a budget plan. If they do not act, offices could close. Many workers might not get paid.

The Senate wants to finish soon. Leaders hope to make a deal. They want it done before fall. This would keep things running well.

Congress is racing to pass a federal budget bill before funding expires this fall. Senate Republicans control the chamber and want to move quickly. Lawmakers just returned from their August recess with a packed schedule. A government shutdown happens when Congress cannot agree on spending bills for federal agencies. During a shutdown, many offices close and thousands of workers go without pay.

This year's budget fight matters even more because midterm elections are just months away. In November, voters will decide who controls the House and Senate. Both parties want to avoid a shutdown that could upset voters. Still, disagreements remain over spending levels and other policy add-ons. In recent years, Congress has used short-term funding patches to buy extra time. Lawmakers could use a similar patch again if a full deal is not ready.

Groups tracking the talks say negotiators are closer than they were earlier this summer. Some key details are still being ironed out by both parties. If Congress fails to act, federal workers could go without pay. National parks could close and some services families rely on could be delayed. The Congressional Budget Office is also monitoring the negotiations closely. Analysts say a resolution could come within the next few weeks.