Two competing bills to pay federal workers failed in the Senate Thursday, as airports nationwide brace for delays on day 24 of the government shutdown.
WASHINGTON - Friday marks day 24 of the government shutdown that is quickly approaching a full month.
Two competing bills aimed at paying federal workers failed in the Senate Thursday, leaving thousands without pay. Lawmakers have adjourned until Monday.
FOX’s Melanie Alnwick reports there had been hope that Democrats and Republicans could at least agree on pay for federal employees, but partisan fights caused that plan to unravel.
Senators on both sides say they support paying federal workers during the shutdown, but each bill came with conditions the other party rejected.
The Republican proposal would have paid military personnel and some essential federal employees, while giving President Donald Trump the authority to decide who gets funds. The Democratic bill would have covered all federal workers, including furloughed employees, contractors, and the military, and blocked the administration from firing workers during the shutdown.
Neither proposal gained enough bipartisan support to pass.
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The failure of the bills is adding pressure to the nation’s air travel system. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy warned travelers could face more delays and cancellations as staffing shortages grow.
On Thursday, Reagan National Airport experienced average ground delays of about 30 minutes. Officials say they’ll be monitoring for further disruptions Friday.