January 29, 2026
Written by Tara Thomas, AESA Senior Government Affairs Manager
The Senate failed to pass a negotiated FY26 spending package before the January 30 deadline, leaving funding unresolved for six appropriations bills, including Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education.
Senate Democrats are seeking changes to the Department of Homeland Security portion of the bill following recent events in Minneapolis, requiring the package to be amended and sent back to the House.
Because the House is not scheduled to return until Monday, a short government shutdown appears likely, with the duration still uncertain.
Education impact:
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Impact Aid is the only K–12 Department of Education program not forward-funded and would be affected immediately by a shutdown.
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Head Start programs with grant cycles beginning February 1 could also see funding disruptions if a shutdown continues.
AESA will continue monitoring developments and share updates as they occur.