The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed a $1.1 trillion spending bill to avert a government shutdown Thursday less than three hours before a midnight deadline, overcoming strenuous Democratic objections to controversial financial provisions.
Shortly after the 219-206 vote, the House passed a 48-hour extension of funding to keep government offices open while the Senate considers the broader measure.
Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid said the Senate would begin that debate Friday.