The U.S. Senate is considering whether or not to fund the Federal Aviation Administration.

The House of Representatives approved the bill Wednesday to continue funding.

But if the Senate defeats the measure, funding for the FAA would stop on Saturday.

While essential workers such as air traffic controllers would still be paid, an estimated 4,000 people could be furloughed.

Among other controversial parts to the bill, subsidies to 13 rural airports would be cut including funds for Athens’ Ben-Epps Airport.

Congressman Paul Broun and eight other Georgia representatives voted for the funding bill.

Tags: Athens, FAA, Federal Aviation Administration, Congressman Paul Broun, federal budget deficit