Capitol News

After more than six weeks of a federal government shutdown, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 5371, a measure to fund the government through January 30, 2026. Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) voted in favor of the legislation, which also extends funding for key programs such as mental health and suicide prevention at the Department of Veterans Affairs and safety-net programs like SNAP and WIC through September 2026.

Barrett issued a statement following the vote: “Tonight, we ended the longest government shutdown in American history after 43 days of unnecessary suffering for the American people. Thanks to eight Senate Democrats who were willing to work across the aisle, our troops and federal employees who were furloughed or forced to work without a paycheck will be taken care of. Families who rely on SNAP benefits no longer need to worry about where their next meal will come from, and Americans can once again travel with confidence as we head into the holiday season. With this disappointing chapter behind us, I look forward to tackling the runaway cost of health care and other issues that are top of mind for families across Michigan and the United States.”

The Senate approved H.R. 5371 on November 10 after eight Democratic senators joined Republicans to end a filibuster; none of those Democrats represented Michigan. The bill provides funding not only for general government operations but also specifically covers appropriations for Agriculture, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and the Legislative Branch through September 2026.

The legislation now awaits President Trump’s signature before it becomes law.