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US nuclear stockpile agency to furlough hundreds amid shutdown

October 20, 2025

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is furloughing approximately 1,400 employees as the US government shutdown enters its 20th day, leaving fewer than 400 workers to maintain operations. This marks the first time in the agency's history since its establishment in 2000 that furloughs have been implemented. The NNSA, responsible for safeguarding the US nuclear stockpile and preventing nuclear proliferation globally, will maintain security of the nuclear arsenal despite these cuts, though modernization efforts will be hampered.

Who is affected

  • Approximately 1,400 NNSA employees being furloughed
  • The remaining fewer than 400 NNSA employees still working
  • Around 1.4 million federal employees on unpaid leave or working without pay
  • Federal law enforcement officers working without pay
  • Military personnel working without pay

What action is being taken

  • The NNSA is furloughing about 1,400 employees while maintaining minimal staffing
  • The NNSA's Office of Secure Transportation continues operating with funding until October 27
  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright is planning to discuss the furloughs during a news conference in Nevada
  • The Senate is voting again on a government funding measure already passed by the House
  • Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune is planning to introduce a bill to pay federal employees and military service members working through the shutdown

Why it matters

  • The NNSA is responsible for safeguarding the US nuclear stockpile and preventing nuclear proliferation
  • This is the first time the NNSA has furloughed workers since its establishment in 2000
  • While the nuclear stockpile will remain secure, efforts to modernize older weapons will be hampered
  • Essential personnel including military and law enforcement must work without pay
  • The shutdown affects approximately 1.4 million federal employees total

What's next

  • Energy Secretary Chris Wright is expected to discuss the furloughs during a news conference in Nevada on Monday
  • The US Senate is again expected to vote on a measure to fund the government
  • Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune plans to introduce a bill to pay federal employees and military service members who are working without pay

Read full article from source: BBC

US nuclear stockpile agency to furlough hundreds amid shutdown