WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., issued the following statement after the Senate passed a bill to keep the federal government funded through April 28, 2017:

“Passing this legislation averted a potentially disruptive government shutdown, while holding the line on discretionary spending. Funds will continue to support important military operations overseas, the fight against ISIL, and our forces in Afghanistan. It also expedites the waiver process for Gen. Mattis to be the next Secretary of Defense, which I believe is absolutely imperative. I am hopeful that next year Senate Democrats will drop their blockade on individual appropriations bills and allow the Senate to work its will on behalf of the American people.”