Federal Government Shutdown Hits Second Week: Travelers Beware!

A partial federal government shutdown entered its second week as lawmakers in Washington struggled to resolve a standoff over federal funding raising concerns about continued travel disruptions and the broader impact on government services.

The shutdown began Feb. 14 when Congress failed to pass full-year appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security. Key components of DHS including the Transportation Security Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are operating without current funding after lawmakers and the White House were unable to agree on budget terms.

TSA employees deemed essential workers are continuing to report to duty despite not receiving paychecks during the shutdown. Transportation and travel groups have warned that staffing shortages could lead to longer wait times and delays at airports nationwide as the spring break travel season approaches.

With thousands of Transportation Security Officers working without pay travelers may face increased security line times and unpredictable service levels. Airlines and industry groups have urged lawmakers to reach an agreement to avoid compounding travel disruptions during one of the busiest periods of the year.

The impasse stems from disagreements between congressional Republicans and the White House over immigration enforcement priorities and other policy provisions attached to the DHS funding bill. Negotiations have stalled leaving many federal employees and the public waiting for a resolution.

While parts of the federal government including the Department of Defense and Social Security Administration remain funded under previously approved appropriations certain programs and services tied to DHS funding are limited or paused.

This is not the first shutdown of the current congressional session. A lengthy shutdown in late 2025 ended only after last-minute agreement on government funding.

With no immediate signs of a breakthrough federal workers and travelers alike are bracing for continued uncertainty unless lawmakers reach a spending agreement in the coming days.