The Senate took a significant step towards averting an impending partial government shutdown by passing a tranche of funding bills much earlier than usual. Senators approved three of the 12 appropriations bills Friday needed to forestall a partial shutdown,

The chamber’s leaders hope to strike a compromise with House lawmakers before federal cash stops flowing on Oct. 1.

The monthlong recess presents a critical opportunity for lawmakers to reach consensus on spending levels and make a dent in an appropriations process that so far has been even more acrimonious than last year’s. Lawmakers are eager to avoid a government shutdown after Sept. 30.