Are you worried that a U.S. government shutdown will affect your upcoming vacation? With the deadline for a new spending bill approaching, travelers can't help but worry. Here's a breakdown of how a shutdown would affect your travel, from flights and cruises to passports and national parks.
Why is the U.S. Government poised to shut down?
The U.S. government could close down because Congress hasn't agreed on a spending bill. The House has passed a bill that slashes domestic programs and raises defense expenditures, but there is no indication whether the Senate will accept it, so there is a funding standoff.
Flights and Cruises: Business as Usual (At First)
Travelers worried about flight cancellations or cruise postponements can relax. Essential agencies like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may see their budgets reduced, but essential staff will continue to show up to work.
Why? Essential Workers Keep Things Moving.
Critical agencies such as the FAA, TSA, and CBP will remain operational.
Air traffic controllers, TSA staff, and customs agents are "essential" and will be on duty, but might not get paid.
This keeps airports and seaports open and flights and cruises operating safely.
That means air traffic controllers, TSA agents, customs agents, and safety inspectors will all still be working—though they will be unpaid—to make travel as smooth and safe as possible. Cruise services will also not be greatly impacted, as previous shutdowns didn't affect arrivals and departures much.
Potential Delays: The Long-Term Threat
While early travel operations may be maintained fairly close to normal, a prolonged shutdown may cause serious disruptions.
What might happen?
Previous shutdowns have illustrated that within two weeks, key workers who do not receive compensation might begin reporting sick. This can result in longer security lines and delayed flights.
National parks can be closed or offer limited services.
Anticipate potential maintenance issues at open but under-staffed parks.
Passport and Visa Services: Stepping Cautiously
Presently, passport and visa services in the U.S. and in American embassies and consulates overseas are slated to operate as normal.
The U.S. State Department indicates these services receive funding from fees they charge, which allows them to continue operating as long as they have money. However, if the shutdown continues, travelers could experience delays in how long it takes to process.
Main Ideas:
Passport and visa processing will continue to occur within the country and at U.S. consulates and embassies.
But prolonged shutdowns might cause delays should the funds be used up.
Economic Impact: A Billion-Dollar Hit
While direct travel disruption may be minimal, the economic effect could be severe. The U.S. Travel Association estimates a weeklong shutdown would cost the travel economy nearly $1 billion per week.
The Price:
The U.S. Travel Association approximates that the travel economy is losing $1 billion weekly.
This affects businesses and workers who depend on tourism and transport.
FAQs: Your Quick Guide
How and when does a government shutdown occur? A shutdown occurs when Congress fails to enact bills to provide funds to federal agencies.
When was the last U.S. government shutdown? The last full shutdown occurred for 35 days from 2018 to 2019 during the presidency of Donald Trump.
What is its impact on National Parks? Parks may close, or be open with limited services. Past shutdowns left the parks un maintained, with trash overflowing and restrooms closed.
Stay Current, Travel Smart: A shutdown of the government may be disconcerting, but if you know the possible effects, you can plan ahead. Listen for official reports and travel warnings.
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VFS Global · Posted
