On March 11, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved a Republican-backed bill to avert a government shutdown, extending federal funding through September 30. The bill maintains fiscal year 2024 spending levels, implementing $13 billion in non-defense cuts and increasing defense spending by $6 billion. It also allocates additional funds for border enforcement and imposes significant cuts to Washington, D.C.'s budget. The vote concluded with 217 in favor and 213 against, reflecting strong Republican support and near-unanimous Democratic opposition.

The legislation now advances to the Senate, where Democratic support is crucial for its passage. Senate Democrats are currently divided on leveraging the funding deadline to counter GOP efforts to reduce federal programs. House Democrats have urged their Senate counterparts to reject the bill, arguing that it limits congressional spending control in favor of President Trump's and cost-cutting czar Elon Musk's agenda. Notably, the measure effectively reverses a prior enforcement funding boost for the IRS. Speaker Mike Johnson garnered support among Republicans, bolstered by endorsements from President Trump and Vice President Vance.

The Senate faces a looming deadline to prevent a government shutdown, with the current funding set to expire soon. The outcome in the Senate will determine whether the proposed funding measures are enacted or if alternative solutions are required to maintain government operations.