Politics

Vote On Stop-Gap Spending Bill Stalled In The Senate

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A vote on a stop-gap spending bill that was planned to take place Thursday was pushed back to next week, allowing senators to continue negotiations.

With the 2016 fiscal year coming to an end on Sept. 30, lawmakers are pressed for time to find a solution to keep the government funded to prevent a government shutdown. The short-term continuing resolution (CR) is also expected to include language providing Zika funding.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch  McConnell had filed cloture on the CR Monday, yet lawmakers still have not reached a consensus on legislation that will pass both chambers.

The length of the stop-gap measure has been a sticking point with conservatives, who feel it should run into next year – after the lame-duck session is over.

“We’re continuing to negotiate text for the short-term CR, the Zika bill, and moving the bill until Monday night will allow us to move forward next week,” McConnell said on the Senate floor Thursday.

Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid told The Hill Wednesday he believes the GOP proposal has “a lot of problems,” crushing hopes they would be able to finish business by the end of the week.

The vote is expected to take place Monday at 5:30 p.m.

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