The Senate has reached a breakthrough agreement to extend government funding, marking a major step toward ending the longest shutdown in US history. The chamber is currently voting on the procedural measure to advance the deal.

The bipartisan agreement was reached after at least eight centrist Senate Democrats struck a compromise with Republican leaders and the White House. In exchange for supporting the funding bill, Democrats secured a commitment for a future vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies.

Air travel at risk ahead of holiday rush

As the shutdown drags on, its effects are rippling across the country. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned that air travel could be “reduced to a trickle” just ahead of Thanksgiving. Airlines have already begun implementing FAA-directed flight reductions, heightening concerns about delays and disruptions during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Food assistance disrupted

The Department of Agriculture has ordered states to immediately halt the issuance of full food stamp benefits for November, reversing any prior steps to provide aid during the shutdown. The sudden rollback affects millions of Americans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

Senate leaders outline next steps

On the Senate floor, Majority Leader John Thune confirmed he has pledged to Democrats that a vote on Affordable Care subsidies will occur no later than the second week of December.

"We have senators, both Democrats and Republicans, who are eager to get to work to address that crisis in a bipartisan way,” Thune said, referring to the rising cost of health care. “We also have a president who is willing to sit down and get to work on this issue. So I’m looking forward to see what solutions might be brought forward.”

The funding package must still clear the House before heading to President Donald Trump’s desk for final approval.