WASHINGTON, DC -- U.S. Rep. Harold "Hal" Rogers (KY-05) released the following statement applauding passage of a three-week continuing resolution to reopen federal government operations through February 8. Senate Democrats stalled passage of a four-week stopgap funding bill, shutting down the government at midnight on January 19.

The funding legislation also provides critical funding for military operations and a six-year extension for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). In Kentucky, 92,727 children receive CHIP benefits.

“I’m pleased to see the Senate put an end to this unnecessary shutdown. While funding the government in piecemeal fashion is never ideal, it is especially reckless to hold hostage critical funding, like health insurance for nearly 20,000 children in my congressional district, to advance partisan political goals. The American people deserve better, along with our brave troops at home and overseas. Now, let’s get back to work on a long-term budget deal.”

The Senate approved the bill 81-18 and it received a vote of 266-150 in the House.