The U.S. federal government remains closed a third week with negotiations still gridlocked. Speaker Johnson has indicated the House will remain in a district work recess period until the Senate is able to break the filibuster threshold. Democrat Senators and House members want to preserve COVID-era expansions of Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC) eligibility that are set to expire this year.

The White House released intentions to fund the paychecks of servicemembers, federally-funded enforcement officers, and the WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Program, but government nonessential funding reserves are running out. The Administration began RIFs late last week, impacting more than 4,000 staff, including 1,100-1,200 in HHS, as the Federal workforce is prepared for more reductions across agencies. Federal government activities deemed essential remain open at this time.