Federal government shutdowns can interrupt distribution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and delay food assistance to large numbers of recipients.
November 12, 2025
high
temporal
Describes a recurring policy/process impact of federal shutdowns on food assistance programs.
Federal government shutdowns can disrupt federally funded benefit programs such as the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP), potentially causing short-term interruptions or depletion of benefits for recipients.
high
process
General consequence of lapses in federal government funding on benefit distribution.
Federal government shutdowns can reduce available air traffic controller staffing and lead to widespread flight delays, flight cancellations, and temporary restrictions or closures of portions of U.S. airspace for safety reasons.
high
operational
Describes the potential operational impacts of federal government shutdowns on air traffic management and aviation operations.
During federal government shutdowns, unpaid air traffic controllers have higher rates of calling in sick, which can exacerbate existing staffing shortages in air traffic control.
high
process
Describes a recurring staffing dynamic observed during federal shutdowns when pay is interrupted.
Federal government shutdowns can leave thousands of federal workers without pay and disrupt government services across the country.
high
impact
Describes typical consequences of a federal funding lapse (government shutdown).