Looming Government Shutdown Threatens Services as New Year Approaches

As the clock ticks down to midnight on December 21, 2024, the United States faces the prospect of its first government shutdown since 2019. With Congress struggling to pass a spending bill, millions of Americans could see disruptions to essential services and programs just days before the holiday season. 

If a shutdown occurs, numerous federal agencies would cease operations, impacting a wide range of services. National parks would likely close, while environmental and food inspections by the EPA and FDA would be put on hold. Passport offices in some areas could shut down, complicating travel plans for those heading overseas. 

While Social Security checks and Medicare benefits would continue, federal offices would have reduced services for those needing to sign up or address issues with their benefits. Similarly, nutrition assistance programs like SNAP and WIC would continue dispersing aid, but with limited support for new applicants or those experiencing problems. Air travel could face significant disruptions. TSA screeners and air traffic controllers would be required to work without pay, potentially leading to longer wait times at airports and possible flight delays. 

Federal employees, including military personnel, would face the prospect of working without pay or being furloughed. An estimated 850,000 workers were furloughed during the 2013 shutdown. As the nation braces for potential disruptions, lawmakers continue to negotiate, with the outcome uncertain. The impact of a shutdown could extend well into the new year, affecting everything from small business loans to disaster relief efforts