Senate rejects GOP spending plan as shutdown looms - 23rd Sept 2011

The Democratic-controlled Senate rejected a House GOP temporary spending bill Friday, inching the federal government closer to yet another potential shutdown and risking the loss of sorely needed disaster recovery funds.

Before the measure was even formally presented, senators cast it aside in a 59-36 vote.

Hours earlier, GOP leaders pushed the bill through the Republican-controlled House in a 219-203 vote after adding a series of cuts vehemently opposed by their Democratic counterparts.

Both chambers of Congress must agree on new spending legislation to avoid a partial shutdown after the close of the current fiscal year September 30.

The measure currently under deliberation -- which would keep Washington running through November 18 -- includes critical new disaster funding assistance for states hit hard by Hurricane Irene, Tropical Storm Lee, and a series of recent wildfires and tornadoes. Read More