Lawmakers Reach Deal To Avoid Government Shutdown

The House Appropriations Committee has reached a deal to prevent a government shutdown, maintaining previous funding levels and including $7 billion for Afghan refugees. The short-term funding bill extends until February 18th, giving Congress time to work on a full federal budget. However, Senate Republicans are opposing federal vaccine mandates, seeking to block funding for them. The bill's passage in the Senate remains uncertain due to potential changes and negotiations, with Republicans leveraging their position to influence the outcome.

What are the concerns of Senate Republicans regarding the vaccine mandate?

What is the significance of the negotiations that will continue in the Senate?