The DHS Shutdown Is Hurting Wyoming Businesses — Here's Where Things Stand

Now approaching two months, the partial government shutdown continues to threaten one of Wyoming's most vital economic engines just as spring travel season begins.

What started on February 14, 2026 has now become the longest partial government shutdown in U.S. history — approaching 55 days with no firm resolution in sight. The Department of Homeland Security has been operating without full funding, and the impact is being felt at airports across the country — including those serving Wyoming's tourism-dependent economy.

At the center of the disruption is the Transportation Security Administration. With TSA agents working without pay for nearly two months, more than 500 officers have quit since the shutdown began, creating significant staffing shortages that have resulted in long security lines and widespread travel delays at airports nationwide.

President Trump has directed DHS to use previously appropriated funds to pay employees in the interim — with most DHS staff expected to receive paychecks between April 10 and April 16. However that order does not end the shutdown and future paychecks beyond April 4 remain dependent on Congress passing a funding bill.

Congress returns from a two-week recess on April 13-14. While the Senate passed a DHS funding bill in early April, the House has not yet taken it up, and emerging GOP infighting over how to handle immigration enforcement funding could prolong the standoff further.

Why this matters for Cheyenne and Wyoming businesses:

Wyoming's economy runs on visitors. From Yellowstone to Grand Teton, spring marks the start of our busiest travel season. For Wyoming's hotels, restaurants, outfitters, and tourism-dependent businesses, every delayed flight and every frustrated traveler represents a potential lost booking. This isn't just a federal problem. It's a Wyoming problem.

The Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce has been monitoring this situation closely on behalf of our members. We are grateful that Wyoming's congressional delegation is working to bring this to a resolution — and we will continue to monitor the situation on behalf of our members.

Read the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's full statement.