Lawmakers reach deal on spending bill, but hurdles remain

Delays can still cause a shutdown at the end of the week that can go through the weekend

WASHINGTON (AP) — Lawmakers have reached agreement on a stopgap spending bill to keep the federal government running through mid-February.

But a temporary shutdown is still possible with some Republicans determined to hold out over the Biden administration’s COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Delays could cause a shutdown at the end of Friday that lasts through the weekend.

But not all Republicans are on board, saying even a short stoppage of the federal government will not play well with the public.

The White House is confident Congress will approve funding to keep the government running.