Trump Signs FY 2019 Funding Bill, Including for FCC, FTC, Averting Shutdown

President Donald Trump signed the package of FY 2019 federal spending bills Friday that Congress passed Thursday via House Joint Resolution 31, the White House said. There's no longer potential for another government shutdown affecting the FCC until at least after the fiscal year ends Sept. 30. The House cleared the measures 300-128 hours after the Senate approved (see 1902140046). The funding bills included a combined $339 million for the FCC and its Office of Inspector General, almost $310 million for the FTC and $39.5 million for NTIA. It includes additional funding to the FAA for unmanned aircraft systems integration activities and language that would clarify rules for the U.S. Department of Agriculture ReConnect pilot distance learning, telemedicine and broadband program. The FCC had said before the measure's passage it would have to close if a lapse in funding had occurred (see 1902130046).