Democracy Dies in Darkness

Congress reaches year-end deal on taxes and spending

December 16, 2015 at 8:37 a.m. EST
House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) addressed the media Dec.16, after Congressional leaders agreed on a budget deal that would prevent a government shutdown. (Video: AP)

Congressional leaders on Tuesday night reached agreement on a year-end spending and tax deal that would prevent a government shutdown and extend a series of tax breaks that benefit businesses and individuals, according to lawmakers.

House Speaker Paul D. Ryan (R-Wis.) walked members of the House GOP conference through the deal at a meeting Tuesday night.