Summary
The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) will temporarily lay off about 1,400 workers due to the ongoing government shutdown. The shutdown has lasted 20 days, impacting federal employees and delaying efforts to modernize nuclear weapons. The Senate is expected to vote on a funding bill to reopen the government.
Key Facts
- The NNSA is part of the U.S. Department of Energy and manages the nuclear stockpile.
- About 1,400 NNSA employees will be furloughed, leaving fewer than 400 on duty.
- This is the first time since its creation in 2000 that the NNSA has had to furlough workers.
- The ongoing government shutdown has affected many federal workers, with some on unpaid leave or working without pay.
- The Office of Secure Transportation, which moves nuclear weapons, has funding to operate until October 27.
- Energy Secretary Chris Wright will discuss the impact of the furloughs at a news conference.
- A Senate vote is expected on a funding bill, but similar measures have failed 10 times.
- 1.4 million federal employees are affected by the shutdown.
