Temporary spending bill OK’d

WASHINGTON – The Senate overwhelmingly passed another stopgap spending measure on Thursday to prevent a government shutdown today, but increasing conservative opposition is making the task of negotiating a lasting deal very complicated for Republican leaders.

Congress has three more weeks before the country is again at risk of a halt in government services. Talks continue behind the scenes on a long-term budget solution.

The outcome of Thursday’s vote paralleled the mood earlier this week in the House, as conservative Republicans voted against the measure in greater numbers. Many Republicans are steadfast in their refusal to support the legislation unless it includes their policy priorities – including defunding President Barack Obama’s health care law and eliminating support for Planned Parenthood.

The Senate voted 87-13 to approve the measure to fund the government through April 8, while cutting $6 billion. Nine Republicans voted against the bill, up from the five who opposed a previous short-term measure this month. Four Democrats also opposed it, the same number as earlier.

Cuts will continue at $2 billion a week. The legislation was designed to appeal to Democrats by making the reductions in programs and services already identified by Obama for termination.

Among the cuts was the elimination of $17 million for the development group called the International Fund for Ireland – on St. Patrick’s Day, as Obama and congressional leaders welcomed the Irish prime minister to an annual lunch.

Sen. Jon Kyl, R-Ariz., argued that including the reductions in a previously approved stopgap bill, Congress would be cutting $10 billion in five weeks.

“All in all, a good day’s work,” Kyl said.

Once Obama signs the latest measure, both sides indicated, the next step is to reach a long-term resolution to fund the government through the 2011 fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. Neither side wants another stopgap.

Democrats have said temporary proposals are creating economic uncertainty and leaving federal agencies unable to fill contracts, initiate programs or function properly.

“This is no way to run the country,” said Sen. Mark Begich, D-Alaska.