Government Shutdown and Energy Operations
The 2025 government shutdown brings major questions about its impact on U.S. energy operations. Despite furloughs across federal agencies, critical work in fossil fuel development and energy regulation will continue.
As reported by POLITICO, the Interior Department will keep certain employees on the job to process oil, gas, and coal permits. Millions of acres of federal land fall under the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which designated its workers as “essential.” BLM employees will continue handling drilling applications and right-of-way approvals.
One BLM official explained:
“Leadership says those programs are excepted [from shutdown furloughs] and the staff is expected to work on those priorities.”
This move ensures energy projects do not stall even while other Interior programs, including much of the National Parks Service, lose two-thirds of their staff.
Shutdown Effect on EPA and Climate Rules
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) faces a slowdown in regulatory enforcement. Inspections and climate rule repeals promoted by the Trump administration are now on pause. This could delay projects requiring new air and water permits.
Analysts warn that companies planning to expand operations could face longer waits for approval. The pause underscores how shutdowns ripple into environmental oversight and corporate planning.
Government Shutdown and Air Travel
The bigger concern for Americans is the effect on air travel. At least a quarter of the Department of Transportation’s workforce faces furloughs. Yet, 33,500 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees will remain on duty.
Their work is funded outside congressional appropriations and deemed “necessary to protect life and property.” That includes air traffic controllers and TSA baggage screeners.
The Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City will continue training new controllers. This ensures a pipeline of staff remains in place even during the funding crisis.
Airports nationwide will remain open, though travelers could face longer lines and limited services due to reduced support staff.
Conclusion
The shutdown highlights the uneven way government services are classified. Energy permitting and air travel operations remain “essential,” while environmental oversight and many federal programs stall. The result: business continuity in fossil fuels and aviation but uncertainty for climate regulation and travelers.
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