Senate passes $180B in federal funding

The Senate on Friday approved over $180 billion for veterans programs, military facilities, agriculture, and the FDA, aiming to reclaim control over federal spending. 

Lawmakers passed the main spending package in an 87–9 vote and also advanced funding for Congress’s operations and oversight agencies. 

The bills now head to the House, which returns in September. 

If signed into law, these three of 12 annual bills could help avoid a government shutdown before the fiscal year begins on October 1. 

Senators Susan Collins and Patty Murray emphasized the importance of Congress exercising its constitutional “power of the purse.” 

Democrats remain concerned about White House efforts to delay or restrict spending Congress has already approved.