US Government Shutdown: Senate Vote, Crypto Bill Stalled

Background on the US Government Shutdown

The US government shutdown has persisted for 38 days as of Friday, according to Cointelegraph. Congressional operations are limited while the Senate considers a new funding bill, which aims to temporarily restore government services. The bill, a continuing resolution passed in the House, will require at least 60 votes in the Senate to advance. Previous attempts to pass funding legislation have repeatedly failed in recent weeks.

Senate Vote and Impact on Legislation

The Senate is scheduled to vote on Friday, with the outcome uncertain due to ongoing disagreements between Democrats and Republicans. While Democrats are seeking the extension of healthcare subsidies and reversal of funding cuts made in July, it is unclear how much bipartisan support the new funding measure has. The impasse has forced most legislative activity, including work on digital asset regulation, to take a backseat.

Despite the shutdown, members of Congress have continued to receive pay, though many federal agency employees are currently furloughed or working without pay. This disparity has amplified pressure on lawmakers to find a resolution.

Stalled Progress on Crypto Regulation Bill

The government shutdown has also delayed the progress of the digital asset market structure bill, a major piece of proposed cryptocurrency legislation. Originally passed by the House as the CLARITY Act and sometimes referred to as the Responsible Financial Innovation Act in the Senate, the bill seeks to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies in the US.

Senator Cynthia Lummis, a leading advocate for crypto regulation, stated in August that, “Republicans planned to have the legislation through the Senate Banking Committee by the end of September, the Senate Agriculture Committee in October and signed into law by 2026,” as reported by Cointelegraph. However, with the ongoing shutdown and the approach of the holiday season, legislative progress appears increasingly unlikely.

What’s Next for Congress and Crypto Regulation?

Lawmakers from both parties reportedly continue discussions on the crypto market structure bill, but major action is contingent on ending the government shutdown. Stakeholders are watching the Senate proceedings closely, as any movement on the funding resolution may lay the groundwork for renewed legislative activity—including digital asset regulation.

For more on cryptocurrency regulation, visit our cryptocurrency section.

Sources

Reporting via Cointelegraph.