The US federal government has partially shut down after missing a funding deadline, even after the Senate approved a funding deal at the last minute.
The shutdown began at midnight on Saturday, US Eastern time. The Senate passed a bill that funds most government departments until September. However, the Department of Homeland Security was given funding for only two weeks.
The bill still needs approval from the House of Representatives. The House is currently not in session and is expected to return on Monday.
President Donald Trump agreed to the deal after talks with Democrats. The discussions became difficult after Democrats refused to support more funding for immigration enforcement. This followed a deadly incident in Minneapolis involving federal immigration officers.
This is the second partial shutdown in recent months. It comes shortly after another shutdown earlier this year. It caused major problems, including flight delays, and many federal workers went unpaid for weeks.
Officials believe this shutdown will be shorter and less severe. Even so, the White House has told several departments, such as transportation, education, and defence, to begin shutdown preparations.
In a message to government agencies, the White House said employees should report to work only to manage shutdown-related duties. The statement also said officials hope the funding gap will be resolved soon.
President Trump has urged Republican lawmakers to support the deal. During the two-week funding period for Homeland Security, lawmakers plan to continue talks.
Democrats are pushing for stricter rules for immigration officers. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said ICE officers should follow clear guidelines, wear visible identification, and operate under proper oversight.
Both Republicans and Democrats have criticised recent actions by immigration agents. Concerns increased after the death of Alex Pretti, an intensive care nurse who was shot by a Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis last weekend.
After this US Department of Justice launched a civil rights investigation. This situation has increased pressure on lawmakers.
