Government Shutdown

Dick Durbin, who is not seeking reelection in 2026, was one of eight members in the Senate Democratic caucus to join Republicans in supporting a procedural vote to begin the process of passing legislation to fund the government.

The Senate voted late Sunday evening on a compromise that could reopen the government following the longest shutdown in history.

New USDA guidance issued Saturday requested that states immediately undo any steps taken to issue full SNAP benefits.

After a federal judge ruled the Trump administration needed to make payments, the Illinois Department of Human Services said some Illinoisans could see benefits as early as this weekend.

The FAA will reduce flights by 10% in 40 airports. St. Louis Lambert International Airport is not on the list, but cutbacks elsewhere will lead to more local cancellations.

St. Louis County is asking residents to donate diapers, formula and wipes at its three health clinics and at county libraries to help residents affected by the federal benefits freeze.

Leaders at Belleville Township High School District 201, East St. Louis School District 189 and Belleville School District 118 say they have not received any indication that the federal reimbursements they receive for providing free or reduced price meals are in jeopardy.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits will be paused on Saturday due to the government shutdown. Here is a resource for people to find food during this pause.

A recent forecast from the St. Louis branch of the Federal Reserve reported a "slightly pessimistic” economic outlook.

Employees at food banks said the SNAP freeze could put a strain on their organizations, which have already seen an increase in demand this year.