Stopgap Funding Plan Emerges as Federal Government Shutdown Deadline Looms
by Stephanie Buka, Government Affairs Manager Jan 30, 2026

As a January 30th midnight deadline approaches for a partial federal government shutdown, Senate leaders are working toward a short-term funding agreement that would keep most agencies operating while extending negotiations on immigration enforcement policy. Ongoing funding negotiations create near-term uncertainty for printers that depend on federal mail, contracting, and regulatory functions, underscoring the importance of a timely resolution.

Under the emerging framework, funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would be separated from the broader government spending package and extended at current levels for an additional two weeks. The temporary extension is intended to give lawmakers time to negotiate potential oversight and accountability measures related to immigration enforcement.

President Donald Trump said the agreement would fund most of the federal government through September while providing a limited extension for DHS, urging bipartisan support.

Procedural delays arose after Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) placed a hold on the package, citing concerns over provisions affecting lawmakers’ ability to pursue legal action if their phone records are obtained without notice. Because the Senate relies on unanimous consent to expedite consideration of funding legislation, a single objection can delay floor action.

Senate leaders from both parties acknowledged that outstanding issues remain. While leadership expressed optimism about resolving the impasse, at least one Democratic senator indicated opposition to the agreement, citing concerns about the administration’s willingness to negotiate enforcement changes in good faith.

Even if the Senate acts before the deadline, a brief funding lapse is likely. The House is not scheduled to reconvene until Monday and would need to approve the measure to avert a shutdown. House leadership has indicated that passage could be challenging given the narrow margin and internal divisions, though support is expected following the president’s call to advance the extension.

Lawmakers on both sides have acknowledged that a short shutdown remains possible as negotiations continue.

This is a developing story, and negotiations remain fluid as congressional leaders work toward a final funding agreement. PRINTING United Alliance will provide updates as developments occur.

In this article, Stephanie Buka, Government Affairs Manager, PRINTING United Alliance, reports on the potential for a partial government shutdown. More information can be found at Business Excellence-Legislation or reach out to Steph should you have additional questions specific to how these issues may affect your business: sbuka@printing.org. 

To become a member of the Alliance and learn more about how our subject matter experts can assist your company with services and resources such as those mentioned in this article, please contact the Alliance membership team: 888-385-3588 / membership@printing.org.

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Stephanie Buka Government Affairs Manager
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Stephanie Buka is the Government Affairs Manager for PRINTING United Alliance. In this role, she supports Ford Bowers, CEO, the Government Affairs team, and coordinates efforts with contracted lobbying firm, ACG Advocacy. Buka is the chief editor of the Industry Advocate newsletter. She is responsible for advocacy campaigns, policy analysis, strategy development and team leadership, all aimed at promoting the Alliance's legislative agenda. She is also responsible for the administration of the Alliance's political action committee, PrintPAC.

Prior to joining the Alliance, Buka served as a senior legislative researcher, and later as a constituent services coordinator, for the 15-member legislative body representing 1.3 million residents of Allegheny County, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In addition to drafting legislation and addressing constituent concerns, Buka cultivated strong relationships with appointed and elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels of government.

Buka holds a master’s degree in Public Policy and Management from the University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA). She also earned a master's degree in Criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, along with a Certificate in Forensic Science and Law from Duquesne University.

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