Federal operations resume after a record 43-day halt

The longest government shutdown in U.S. history has officially ended after the president signed a bill passed by Congress to restore temporary federal funding. Following 43 days of partial closure, federal agencies are returning to work, though it may take time for normal operations to resume fully.

About 1.4 million federal employees were affected during the shutdown. Roughly half continued working without pay, while the rest were furloughed. Agencies have been instructed to reopen promptly and in an orderly fashion. However, the timing of back pay depends on each agency’s payroll system. In previous shutdowns, most employees received their payments within days, although some had to wait until the next pay cycle.

SNAP funding secured through 2026

Congress included funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through September 2026. The program, which supports around 42 million Americans, faced significant uncertainty and legal challenges during the shutdown. Although operations are restarting, full benefit payments will vary by state.

Smithsonian museums reopen gradually

The Smithsonian Institution, which manages 21 museums and the National Zoo, announced a phased reopening plan. The National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum, along with its annex in Virginia, will open first. Other museums and the zoo are expected to welcome visitors again early next week.

Temporary stability amid uncertainty

The new funding bill only keeps the government running through January 30, leaving open the possibility of another shutdown. While federal operations are resuming, administrative and economic impacts — from delayed refunds to backlogs in public services — could last for weeks as agencies recover.