TL/DR –
The U.S. federal government has reopened following a 43-day shutdown, the longest in the nation’s history. Despite this, issues such as delayed flights, backpay for federal workers, and the resumption of food stamp programs persist. Furthermore, the next funding deadline is less than three months away, potentially setting the stage for another shutdown if lawmakers don’t act.
Effects of Longest Government Shutdown Persist as Federal Government Reopens
The Federal government has reopened following a record 43-day shutdown, but its effects could linger. President Donald Trump signed a bill late Wednesday night to fund the government through Jan. 30, following its clearance in the House of Representatives by a 222-209 vote.
Various federal aid programs, agencies, and landmarks are reopening and furloughed federal employees are returning to work. However, issues such as flight delays and cancellations are expected to continue, and millions of Americans are still awaiting food stamps that were halted during the shutdown.
A recent CouponFollow survey reports that 72% of SNAP recipients are worried they won’t be able to afford enough food for the holiday season. The potential for further government disruption looms as the next funding deadline, Jan. 30, is less than three months away, and could coincide with the expiration of health insurance subsidies at the end of 2025.
Kevin Hassett, Director of Trump’s National Economic Council, stated that the shutdown cost approximately $15 billion per week and slowed the national economy by 1% to 1.5%, resulting in the loss of jobs for about 60,000 non-federal workers. The Department of Housing and Urban Development have announced an immediate resumption of services for the elderly, housing, and access to health care.
The Office of Management and Budget has directed federal agencies to open and furloughed workers to return to work starting Nov. 13. A senior Trump administration official confirmed that departments are aiming to send out checks covering back pay between Nov. 15-19, depending on the agency.
Trump criticized the Democrats during the bill signing, accusing them of instigating the shutdown for political reasons. As the shutdown ends, airlines and aviation experts are warning travelers to prepare for further flight disruptions throughout the week. The U.S. Department of Agriculture stated that most SNAP payments should resume within 24 hours of the government’s reopening.
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