Washington: Amid the government shutdown that is paralyzing the work of US federal departments, the US Senate has failed for the eighth time to pass a bill submitted by the Republican Party to continue funding the government. Voting on the Republican initiative is still ongoing, but it will no longer be able to obtain the required 60 votes, according to US media.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the bill aims to extend temporary funding for the federal government and prevent a worsening of the shutdown, which is entering its second week. The bill, which was previously passed by the House of Representatives, received 49 votes in favor and 45 against, while it requires 60 votes to pass.

The government shutdown is due to Congress’ failure to reach an agreement on a funding bill, as a result of disagreements between the Republican and Democratic parties over key spending items, most notably those related to the healthcare sector. Negotiations between the two sides remain stalled, amid political accusations about responsibility for the crisis and its prolongation.

According to US legislation, departments and agencies related to national security and foreign policy continue to operate during the shutdown, along with employees tasked with “protecting life and property.” These employees are required to work temporarily without pay, with their benefits to be paid after the financial crisis is resolved.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Besant warned last Monday that the US government shutdown was already impacting the country’s economy and the lives of citizens. The new US fiscal year began on October 1 without Congress passing a government budget. This forced the federal government to shut down, impacting up to 40% of the workforce, or more than 800,000 people.

Republicans, the ruling party, control both houses of Congress, but they need 60 votes to pass a government funding bill in the Senate. The ruling party currently holds 53 seats. US President Donald Trump blamed the Democrats for the government shutdown. The administration took advantage of the shutdown to begin cutting staff and benefits, as well as eliminating programs that Republicans dislike.