The Rail Passengers Association warns a prolonged shutdown could disrupt Thanksgiving service as federal safety inspectors remain furloughed.
WASHINGTON — The Rail Passengers Association (RPA) warned this week that a prolonged U.S. government shutdown threatens to disrupt Amtrak service nationwide, creating a significant risk for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday travel period.
While Amtrak operations remain stable for now, the passenger advocacy group urged Congress to resolve the funding impasse before it impacts millions of travelers.
The core issue stems from the furlough of federal railroad staff. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has already furloughed approximately 23% of its workforce, according to a report from Railway Supply. This action halts federally-mandated safety inspections, investigations, and rule enforcement, which could slow critical maintenance projects on key routes.
Amtrak operates as an independent corporation but relies on federal assistance and oversight for its national network.
“On a long enough timeline, the lack of federal operating funding will lead to a service disruption on Amtrak,” the RPA stated in its announcement. The group warned that if the shutdown “continues well into November,” travelers can expect “dire reports” from Amtrak leadership about the holiday season.
As of October 27, 2025, Amtrak has not announced any route closures or fare hikes. The passenger railroad continues to operate using revenue from ticket sales and state-level public partnerships.
The warning, however, raises alarms as millions of Americans prepare for Thanksgiving, one of the busiest long-distance travel periods of the year. A disruption to Amtrak’s network could strand passengers and place heavy strain on already busy airlines and highways.
The Rail Passengers Association is pressing Congress to provide a funding solution immediately. Travelers with holiday bookings are advised to monitor official announcements from Amtrak for any potential service alerts or schedule changes as November approaches.
No. As of October 27, 2025, Amtrak operations are stable and running normally, supported by ticket sales and state partnerships. The risk is for future disruptions if the government shutdown continues into November.
A prolonged shutdown impacts Amtrak in two ways: it threatens federal operating funds, and it furloughs essential Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) employees. Without these FRA inspectors, safety oversight and maintenance projects are suspended, which can prevent Amtrak from operating safely.
The Rail Passengers Association did not specify which routes would be cut first, but warned of broad “service disruption on Amtrak” and impacts to the national network, which would affect both long-distance and state-supported routes ahead of the holidays.