House bill funds agencies through September; Senate prospects uncertain

The House has passed a bill to fund federal agencies through September, with a vote of 217-213. This measure aims to prevent a partial government shutdown, but it now requires bipartisan support in the Senate to proceed. The bill includes a $13 billion cut in non-defense spending and a $6 billion increase in defense spending. It does not address major programs like Social Security and Medicare, which are funded automatically. Democrats have expressed concerns about the bill's flexibility for the Trump administration in spending decisions. They have proposed an alternative funding bill that would last until April 11, should the current measure fail in the Senate.