The House has passed (239-178) a continuing resolution to provide funding for USDOT and other federal agencies through December 18th, at 2010 funding levels. No earmarks are included.

The Senate is likely to go along. However, Senate Republicans have said they would vote against bringing any legislation to the floor until first dealing with the expiring 2001 and 2003 tax cuts.

Democrats want to pass the FY 2011 bill this year while they still control both the House and Senate. But even that may end the story. Congressional Quarterly reports that a primary candidate to Chair the Appropriations Committee, Republican Jerry Lewis, said “Should the Democratic leadership muster the votes to pass the omnibus . . . every penny above and beyond the 2008 level will be on the chopping block come January” when Republicans take control of the House, Lewis said.

"House Backs Stopgap Spending Plan Through Dec. 18", Congressional Quarterly