Impacts of Potential U.S. Government Shutdown on Services Nationwide

Without congressional action, government funding will expire at midnight on Oct. 1, leading to a potential shutdown.

September 30, 2025

Updated September 30, 2025 at 3:48 PM EDT

As the debate continues in Washington over the government’s funding details, Americans nationwide are bracing for a potential shutdown and its effects. If Congress doesn’t intervene, funding lapses at 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 1, halting nonessential services and leaving many federal workers without pay.

The potential shutdown’s impact would be felt in various sectors across the country.

Jump to state-specific impacts.

If you are traveling by air soon…

Essential staff, including air traffic controllers and most TSA employees, will continue working during a shutdown, albeit without pay. Extended shutdowns could lead to increased “sick-outs,” similar to the 2018-2019 shutdown. Passport renewals may also face delays as some employees are furloughed, affecting international travel plans.

Letter carrier Connie Cruz delivers mail on Oct. 8, 2020, in Salem, Oregon. The U.S. Postal Service will continue to function should the government shut down.

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Postal services remain unaffected

The U.S. Postal Service will maintain regular operations during a shutdown as it operates independently of federal appropriations.

Effects on benefits and safety net programs

Social Security and VA benefits will continue, although service processing may slow. The WIC food program, serving mothers and children, faces immediate risks if the shutdown prolongs. Georgia Machell, National WIC Association CEO, notes, “The timing of this shutdown threat at the start of the fiscal year puts WIC at risk of rapidly running out of funds. A prolonged federal government shutdown of more than one week puts WIC families at risk.” Meanwhile, SNAP benefits could also deplete if the shutdown extends.

Federal employees face missed paychecks

Federal workers and active-duty military personnel will not be paid during the shutdown. The White House warns of potential mass layoffs (reduction in force) alongside furloughs. The upcoming payroll dates for missed checks are Oct. 24 for federal employees and Oct. 15 for military personnel. Constitutionally, Congress members and the president will continue receiving salaries unless they defer payment. Back pay is assured after the government reopens.

The National Park Service logo is displayed at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Page, Ariz., on July 10.

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National parks’ uncertain status

The fate of U.S. national parks remains unclear. During the 2018-2019 shutdown, they stayed open without staff, leading to damage. The GAO later deemed the use of entrance fees to keep parks open illegal. Discussions are ongoing about whether parks will remain accessible without staff this time.

Weather services continue

The National Weather Service will continue routine and emergency forecasts, though other services like maintenance and upgrades could be delayed.

FEMA maintains operations as funds dwindle

FEMA will continue to respond to emergencies, but its Disaster Relief Fund requires more congressional funds. Delays in state and local reimbursements could occur, and the National Flood Insurance Program may expire without legislative action.

State-specific impacts

Alaska

With about 15,000 federal employees, Alaska faces uncertainty if a shutdown occurs. President Trump’s warnings about potential layoffs add to the concerns about the state’s workforce impact. For more details, visit Alaska Public Media.

A closed and blocked campground at the Joshua Tree National Park after the federal government's partial shutdown caused park rangers to stay home and campgrounds to be shut, at the park in California, on January 3, 2019. — A closed and blocked campground at the Joshua Tree National Park after the federal government’s partial shutdown caused park rangers to stay home and campgrounds to be shut, at the park in California, on January 3, 2019.

California

The National Park Service has yet to finalize its 2025 contingency plan. Emily Thompson from the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks expressed concerns about parks remaining open without staff, citing potential dangers and past vandalism instances such as at Joshua Tree National Park. Read more at KQED.

Colorado

As the fifth-most visited national park, Rocky Mountain National Park may be impacted. Governor Jared Polis is considering using state funds to keep it operational and urged the federal government to prioritize park operations. Essential weather services will persist. More details at CPR.

The United States Coast Guard Academy is seen, Sept. 14, 2020, in New London, Conn.

Connecticut

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy and station in Connecticut could see effects, as Coast Guard members are part of DHS, not DOD. During previous shutdowns, they relied on community support. The Naval Submarine Base, employing numerous civilians, could also face delays. Learn more at WSHU.

Louisiana

The National Flood Insurance Program, crucial for nearly half a million Louisianans, faces expiration without congressional action. Policyholders won’t be able to renew or start new policies, and claim funds could significantly reduce. Additional info at WWNO.

Oregon

Oregon’s federal workforce, about 30,000 strong, will see varied impacts based on funding sources and job roles. Essential staff will work without pay, while others could be furloughed. Past shutdowns have seen furloughed workers receive back pay. More information at OPB.

NPR’s Padma Rama and Emily Alfin Johnson edited this piece.

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