Up to 70% of federal discretionary programs could be funded at the start of the 2019 Fiscal Year if Senate leaders have their say.  The chamber, which has been in session for much of August, has essentially completed work on nine of twelve appropriations measures and is now ready to offer the package to the entire Senate in September.   Another measure, a three-bill minibus covering smaller numbers, like Energy and Water appropriations, is also nearing completion.  While it is still way too early to be optimistic, this is as close as Congress has gotten to implementing more than one or two spending bills on time for many years.  Indeed, the last two years have started with 100% of the government operating under a Continuing Resolution.  Most contractors would be happy with DOD and Homeland Security having money at the start of the year.  That may happen this September, though there are at least three factors that could lead to a familiar CR in October.  First, is whether any deal can pass muster with the more conservative members of the House.  They may want to show constituents that they are holding the line on spending moving into the November election.  Second, there is a very limited window of time in September, with the House being in session, at best, for 10-11 days.  Lastly, the President must also be considered.  Congressional leaders have no assurance that he will sign any partial or total spending measure, especially if it fails to contain funding for a border wall.  Stay tuned.