US Government Shutdown Ends: Trump Signs Funding Bill to Restore Federal Operations Until January 30

The bill, signed by President Trump, extends funding through January 30.

New Delhi:

United States President Donald Trump signed a government funding bill on Wednesday, bringing an end to the record 43-day shutdown that caused significant financial hardship for federal workers who went unpaid, created disruptions for travelers at airports, and resulted in lengthy queues at food banks across the country.

Prior to signing the legislation, Trump stated, "Today we are sending a clear message that we will never give in to extortion." This comment elicited applause from Republican lawmakers gathered in the Oval Office.

READ: US Faces Worst Flight Disruptions Of Shutdown: 10,000 Delays, 3,200 Cancellations

The signing ceremony took place just two hours after the Republican-controlled House of Representatives approved the bill with a vote of 222-209. According to Reuters, Trump's signature on the legislation, which had already passed the Senate earlier in the week, will allow federal employees idled by the shutdown to return to their jobs as early as Thursday.

The funding bill extends government operations through January 30, maintaining the federal government's trajectory of adding approximately $1.8 trillion annually to its $38 trillion debt. The legislation includes provisions to reverse the dismissal of federal workers that occurred under the Trump administration since the shutdown began on October 1.

Additionally, the bill protects federal employees against further layoffs through January and ensures they receive compensation once the shutdown concludes.

READ: 14 Failed Votes, $7 Billion Loss: Inside Longest US Shutdown In History

For the Agriculture Department, the bill ensures that individuals relying on essential food assistance programs will have these benefits funded without interruption through the remainder of the budget year, according to the Associated Press. The package allocates $203.5 million to enhance security for lawmakers and an additional $28 million for Supreme Court justice security.

With the government shutdown now over, there is optimism that critical services, particularly those related to air travel, will have time to recover before the Thanksgiving holiday arrives in two weeks.

The restoration of food assistance to millions of citizens may free up household budgets for spending as the Christmas season approaches.

Furthermore, the conclusion of the shutdown means that the flow of economic data from key statistical agencies will resume in the coming days.

(With inputs from agencies)