Continuing Resolution 2013: Bill Clears Senate, Heads To House

The U.S. Senate approved a continuing resolution, a stop-gap measure for funding the government through the rest of the 2013 fiscal year, on Wednesday, voting 73 to 26 to avoid a government shutdown on March 27.

The bill approved is a $984 billion measure and it now heads to the House where it is expected to be approved tomorrow. The measure will keep the $85 billion in automatic spending cuts known as a sequester.

The bill progressed after lawmakers reached an agreement to spare federal meat inspectors from furloughs.

There were several amendments pending, including one from Kansas Sen. Jerry Moran to delay a full vote on the bill until there was a vote on his amendment seeking funding for air traffic control towers in rural areas.

The Senate bill adds to the House measure, making specific appropriations for defense, veterans affairs, agriculture and homeland security, and others.