United States President Donald Trump signed a government funding bill on Wednesday, officially ending the nation’s record 43-day shutdown. The move restores pay for thousands of federal workers and reopens critical services that had been halted since October 1.
Before signing the bill, Trump declared, “Today we are sending a clear message that we will never give in to extortion,” drawing applause from Republican lawmakers present at the Oval Office.
The Republican-led House passed the bill by a 222-209 vote just two hours before the signing. Earlier this week, the Senate approved it, paving the way for federal employees to return to work as early as Thursday, according to Reuters.
The bill funds the government through January 30 and reverses earlier layoffs of federal workers. It also guarantees back pay and protection against further job cuts during this period.
The Agriculture Department’s funding ensures uninterrupted food assistance programs for millions, the Associated Press reported. Additional allocations include $203.5 million for lawmakers’ security and $28 million for Supreme Court protection.
With Thanksgiving approaching, the reopening offers relief for travelers, households, and businesses. Economic data flow and essential services are also expected to resume within days, stabilizing operations nationwide.
