WASHINGTON: The US House of Representatives is expected to vote on Tuesday on a spending bill aimed at ending the partial government shutdown after the House Rules Committee advanced the Senate-approved package late Monday.
The shutdown began after negotiations collapsed over funding issues, particularly following Democratic objections linked to recent actions by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis that resulted in the deaths of two US citizens.
Earlier, the Senate passed legislation funding most federal agencies through September, along with a temporary two-week measure to keep the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operating while discussions continue on immigration enforcement policies.
Government shutdowns suspend non-essential services, forcing agencies to furlough workers or require them to work without pay.
President Donald Trump urged swift passage of the bill, warning against prolonging the shutdown. In a statement on social media, he called for immediate approval of the legislation without amendments.
Democrats in the House have demanded reforms in DHS enforcement practices, including limits on the use of masked agents and stronger accountability measures.
Following public backlash, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced that immigration agents in Minneapolis would begin using body cameras, with plans to expand the policy nationwide.
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed confidence that lawmakers would approve the bill, though the Republican majority remains narrow and passage may depend on bipartisan support.
If approved by the House, lawmakers will have two weeks to finalize a long-term funding agreement for DHS.