The House of Representatives passed a bill to end the record-setting government shutdown by a vote of 222-209 on Wednesday (November 12). Six Democrats joined Republicans in voting to reopen the government. The bill now heads to President Donald Trump, who is expected to sign the legislation, ending the shutdown after 43 days.
The legislation includes a “minibus” of three full-year appropriations bills, ensuring the continuation of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through September next year. It also keeps the government open on a short-term basis until January 30. However, the bill does not extend enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a significant concession by Democrats. The bill also includes funding for the Department of Agriculture, military construction, and veterans’ affairs through September.
The absence of these subsidies could lead to a sharp increase in health insurance premiums for over 20 million Americans. Without the subsidies, premiums could more than double, affecting many lower-income and middle-class enrollees. However, the deal guarantees a vote on the ACA subsidies in December, but it’s uncertain if it will pass in the Republican-controlled Congress.
The shutdown has caused significant disruptions, including air travel chaos. Airports across the country have faced cancellations and delays due to staffing shortages.
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