Government Shutdown Could Delay Travel And Passport Processing

The U.S. government may be shut down if Congress doesn’t take action before the September 30, 2023 deadline, the last day that many government programs are funded. If a new budget doesn’t pass, many government agencies, including travel and security agencies, may shut down.

Why Is The U.S. Government Shutdown Likely?

House Republicans (who currently control the U.S. House of Representatives) have not agreed on spending negotiations, bringing the likelihood of a shutdown closer to fruition.

Due to party infighting, House Republicans failed to pass two spending bills on September 20, 2023. In a close vote, the House defeated a measure that could have opened a path to debate on a defense appropriations bill. Only one out of 12 spending bills has been passed in the House. Note that spending bills usually begin in the House and then move to the Senate.

A previous government shutdown occurred during the Trump administration from December 2018 to January 2019 and lasted 35 days. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a more significant threat could be how long it would take to reopen the government, should the shutdown occur. There is a good chance that the shutdown will last for some time, hurting workers and the economy.

How Will The Potential Shutdown Hurt Travel?

If the government gets shut down, travelers should give themselves more time when traveling. Many government workers would be furloughed. Essential employees would be forced to work without pay until funds are passed and appropriated.

According to The White House, TSA agents and air traffic controllers would have to work without pay, which could cause travel delays. Federal law enforcement and active duty military would also work without pay.

National Parks and visitor centers may close, and visa and passport applications would likely be delayed. There wouldn’t be pay for training new FAA employees, which could hurt the airline industry. Museums and monuments may also have to shut.

When the government shutdown in 2018-2019, security lines at airports were longer than usual, and security lines were shut. Additionally, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, some of the busiest airports had significant delays. Further, the National Park Service reported a $500 million loss in the 2013 shutdown.

Summary

With the October 01, 2023 deadline quickly approaching, Congress must act soon by either passing legislation to continue funding the government or passing a stopgap measure. Should a government shutdown occur, expect travel, particularly air travel, to be delayed or even shut. Additionally, visas and passports may take longer to process.

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