City of Austin says government shutdown 'placing additional pressure' on city, nonprofits

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- In a new memo, the city of Austin detailed how it expects the ongoing federal government shutdown to impact Central Texas nonprofits and government agencies.

"The Federal Government Shutdown has now become the second-longest in U.S. history. For context, the longest shutdown on record lasted 35 days, from December 22, 2018, to January 25, 2019. Given the current pace of negotiations, the record is at risk of being surpassed," Carrie Rogers, the Austin Government Relations Officer, wrote.

Rogers highlighted the potential stoppage of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit distribution, which the city says would place more pressure on local nonprofits and governments.

"In Travis County, the potential loss of SNAP benefits would affect approximately 44,895
households, representing over 87,000 individuals, and result in the loss of $16.3 million in
monthly SNAP payments. In anticipation of increased need, the Central Texas Food Bank has
ordered additional food and is finalizing plans for expanded distribution in November to help
support affected residents," the memo said.

The city also highlighted concerns over air traffic controller staffing, which has already caused ground stops at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Additionally, the city noted the following:

• Public Safety: FEMA reimbursements, grant reporting, and training activities are delayed,
  though core services continue
• Infrastructure & Environment: EPA and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) furloughs are slowing project reimbursements, data collection, and loan processing for key water and environmental programs
• Flood Insurance: The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is unable to issue new policies or renew existing ones. This lapse began on October 1, 2025, and affects millions of
  homeowners who rely on NFIP for flood coverage.

"The Government Relations Office continues coordinating with departments through the City’s Government Shutdown Contingency Plan to identify impacts and, where possible, plan for potential opportunities to maintain essential services, while continuing regular communication with federal partners and providing updates as conditions change," Rogers said.