The House on Wednesday approved a short-term measure that extends funding for the federal government for another week, through Dec. 23, buying more time for lawmakers to finish crafting a massive omnibus spending bill in the waning days of this Congress.

The vote was 224-201 with nine Republicans joining the Democratic majority.

The legislation next heads to the Senate, which could take it up as soon as Thursday.

Passing a temporary funding bill in the House is a major step to stopping the federal government shutdown that is set to begin Friday at midnight.