Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

Skip to content
Content starts here
CLOSE ×

Search

Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Federal Government Back Open — For Now

Congress agrees to maintain services until Feb. 8


spinner image US capitol building at sunrise
The federal government is open for business again (for now, anyway) after a brief shutdown.
Doug Armand/Getty Images

The federal government is back open after Congress agreed to another temporary spending bill that the president signed late Monday. But this latest measure expires Feb. 8, when the nation could find itself in the same predicament.

The three-day shutdown began on a weekend, so Americans did not experience many interruptions in federal services. Feb. 8 is a Thursday, so government operations would be affected sooner in the event of another shutdown. 

spinner image Image Alt Attribute

AARP Membership— $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.

Join Now

With three weeks before the next funding deadline, consumers should consider taking care of federal business sooner rather than later. For example, if you’re planning an international trip soon, you’ll want to visit a passport office right away. If you’re scheduled to visit one of the nation’s 417 national parks and other sites between now and Feb. 8, your trip will not be affected. After that, another government shutdown could interrupt your plans.

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Join AARP to Continue

Already a Member?