Washington Today Federal government reopens, but questions about timing of furloughed worker backpay, full SNAP benefits & air travel returning to normal
Nov 13, 2025
The federal government reopens after a lengthy shutdown, sparking discussions about back pay for furloughed employees and the restoration of SNAP benefits. Homeland Security Secretary announces $10,000 bonuses for TSA officers who worked unpaid. Political fallout from the Senate deal is dissected, with both Democrats and Republicans weighing in. Meanwhile, Melania Trump launches a new initiative for foster care. Air travel disruptions continue as officials gauge when things will return to normal.
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Shutdown Ends But Recovery Lags
- The federal government reopened after a record 43-day shutdown, but many services won't immediately return to normal.
- Back pay, SNAP benefits, and air travel disruptions may take days to weeks to fully resolve.
Prepare For Staggered Back Pay
- Expect federal employee back pay to arrive early next week though timing may vary.
- Plan finances accordingly if you or employees were furloughed during October.
SNAP Payouts Are A Patchwork
- Restoring full SNAP benefits is complex because each state runs disbursement infrastructure differently.
- Some states used emergency funds, so national restoration could take a week or more.
