After the longest shutdown in US history, federal services are set to resume following President Donald Trump signing a new funding bill. The 43-day standoff between Republicans and Democrats left hundreds of thousands of federal workers unpaid and disrupted key government programs.
What the New Bill Covers
The approved finance bill reopens government departments and provides funding until the end of January 2026. Key highlights include:
- Federal Employees: Around 750,000 furloughed workers will return to work and receive back pay. Essential staff, such as FBI agents, air traffic controllers, and police officers, who worked during the shutdown, will also get compensated.
- Food Assistance Programs: The bill restores programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), supporting millions of low-income Americans.
- Legislative Branch Funding: Congress and other government agencies will continue operations without disruption for the next two months.
President Trump said, “With my signature, the federal government will now resume normal operations,” signaling the end of disruptions.
What the Bill Does Not Include
The new bill resolves most funding issues, but it does not extend healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Democrats wanted these subsidies continued. They benefit over 22 million low-income Americans. Tax credits are set to expire on December 31, creating uncertainty for many families.
Centrist Democrats and Republicans plan a separate vote on healthcare subsidies in December. Approval is not guaranteed, so Congress will revisit the issue in the new year.
When Will Services Fully Resume?
Federal departments will reopen gradually over the next few days. Furloughed employees will return and receive back pay. Essential services such as air traffic control, law enforcement, and food assistance programs will operate normally.
This reopening brings relief to Americans affected by service disruptions. However, healthcare subsidy questions will keep Congress in focus in the coming weeks.
