Government Shutdown Averted; FAA Bill Extended; House GOP Leadership Upended

What happened: Congress Sept. 30 reached a deal to continue government funding through mid-November. The short-term deal, known as a continuing resolution (CR), passed overwhelmingly in both chambers. The CR also includes an extension of the authorization for aviation programs through Dec. 31.

However, the bipartisan agreement rankled some House Republicans, who used it as one reason to oust Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as Speaker of the House.

Without a House Speaker in place, legislative activity, including next week’s planned action on a full-year FY 2024 transportation spending bill, is halted.

Why it matters: The CR offers additional time for the House and Senate to reach agreement on year-long spending bills and to finalize a new, five-year reauthorization of aviation programs.

What’s next: House Republicans will meet Tuesday to begin the process of selecting a new Speaker.