US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a funding bill passed by Congress, formally ending the unprecedented 43-day federal government shutdown that had disrupted essential services nationwide. The House approved the Senate-backed bill in a 222–209 vote, restoring agency funding until January and allowing federal operations to resume.
Federal Workers to Return With Back Pay and Job Security
Roughly 1.4 million federal employees will return to duty, with all furloughs cancelled and full back pay guaranteed for missed workdays. Agencies have issued staggered return-to-work notices, enabling the reopening of preschools, food programmes, museums, and national landmarks.
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Food Assistance Programmes Regain Funding
SNAP, WIC, school meals, and other nutrition programmes—severely strained during the shutdown—will receive replenished funding. While states are expected to resume benefit disbursements soon, payment timelines remain uncertain due to system backlogs.
Air Travel Recovery May Take Weeks
Air travel disruptions are expected to persist for days as the FAA rebuilds staffing and airlines restore flight schedules. Over 900 flights were cancelled on Wednesday amid widespread controller shortages.
Delayed Economic Reports to Be Released
The Bureau of Labor Statistics will begin releasing postponed data, including the September jobs report, though October figures may take longer due to incomplete surveys during the closure.
Public Attractions Begin Preparations to Reopen
National parks, museums, and federal sites will gradually resume services as returning staff prepare facilities for visitors.
New Security Funding for Key Institutions
The bill allocates additional security funds:
- $203.5 million for lawmakers
- $852 million for US Capitol Police
- $28 million for Supreme Court protection
Major Boost for Veterans’ Healthcare
The Department of Veterans Affairs will receive $115 billion for medical care, supporting toxic exposure programmes, women’s health, rural services, mental health initiatives, and homelessness prevention.
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Congressional Oversight Requirements Added
A new mandate requires the Justice Department and FBI to notify the Senate if lawmakers are under investigation or if their personal data is subpoenaed.
Democrats’ Demand on Insurance Subsidies Delayed
An extension of health insurance subsidies was excluded but will be voted on separately in December.
Government Funded Only Until January
The bill averts an immediate crisis, but the US government will face another funding deadline early next year.
