Funding bill introduced to avert government shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson has introduced a short-term funding bill to prevent a government shutdown next week. The bill aims to keep the government running until the end of September and will be voted on early next week. The proposed legislation increases defense spending while cutting non-defense discretionary spending. It has not been negotiated with Democrats, raising concerns about its passage in the House and Senate. Democrats have criticized the bill, arguing it could lead to cuts in essential services. The divide between the parties increases the risk of a shutdown, as Republicans may struggle to secure enough votes without bipartisan support.