Wyoming’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) has paused accepting new applications for the 2025-26 heating season due to the federal government shutdown. Officials at the Wyoming Department of Family Services say this interruption will affect residents relying on the program to offset winter poverty risks.

The federal government shutdown is in its second week with no immediate effect on Oklahoma road and bridge projects. However, the state’s top transportation official cautions that if Congress cannot reach a long-term budget deal, these projects could face serious setbacks.

Washington is bracing for a federal government shutdown that began when lawmakers failed to reach a funding agreement by the critical deadline. With no immediate resolution in sight, officials expect the halt in federal operations could last longer than initially anticipated.

With only three-and-a-half weeks remaining, Congress faces increasing pressure to reach an agreement and prevent a federal government shutdown. If lawmakers fail to act, federal workers and grant-reliant programs in Northeast Tennessee could suffer the consequences.