09/03/2026

Congress Passes Short-Term Funding Measure Through Dec. 11

Congress has passed a continuing resolution that would keep the federal government funded through Dec. 11, 2026, if signed by the president. The measure would avert a government shutdown after Sept. 30 and temporarily maintain funding for federal programs that support older adults, aging services providers and the workforce.

What You Need To Know

• The House approved the continuing resolution Sept. 1 by a 370-48 vote.
• Funding for programs including HUD Section 8, Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly, Older Americans Act services, Department of Labor programs, and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services survey and certification activities would continue at fiscal year 2026 levels through Dec. 11.
• The measure includes flexibility allowing public housing authorities to use unobligated Tenant-Based Rental Assistance funds to help renew expiring vouchers and prevent gaps in rental assistance.
• It also temporarily blocks implementation of a proposed federal grants rule that would give political appointees greater authority over federal grant decisions.
• The measure provides only short-term funding and does not resolve full-year fiscal year 2027 appropriations.

What Happens Next

• The continuing resolution heads to the president for signature.
• If enacted, federal funding will continue through Dec. 11, pushing final appropriations negotiations later into the year.
• Congress will still need to reach agreement on full-year funding for HUD, health and human services, labor and other federal programs.
• LeadingAge will continue advocating for funding levels that support aging services providers, older adults and the aging services workforce.

What to Do

• No immediate action is required from providers.
• Organizations that rely on federally funded housing, workforce or aging services programs should be aware that current funding is temporary.
• Monitor federal appropriations activity as the Dec. 11 deadline approaches.
• Read LeadingAge’s full coverage of the continuing resolution for additional details.