Lawmakers Reportedly Reach “Agreement in Principle” to Avoid Friday Shutdown

Congressional negotiators announced Monday that there is an “agreement in principle” to fund the U.S. government through the fall, and to avoid another partial shutdown of the government due to start Friday. Progress has reportedly been made on disputes over immigration laws.

Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-VT) remarked Monday, “We’re working in good faith. I believe [Republicans] are too,” showing optimism for a deal to be finalized.

Senate Appropriations Chairman Richard C. Shelby (R-AL), House Appropriations Committee Chairman Nita M. Lowey (D-NY), and Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX) were meeting with Leahy with the responsibility of reaching a deal on border security to avoid another shutdown. The bipartisan conference committee has until Friday for this to become official.

“At the moment, I think odds have improved, but they still have not crystallized,” remarked Shelby. Nothing is official yet, but this is the first sign that a deal may indeed be announced this week.

This story is breaking, and will be updated accordingly.