At a House hearing in Washington, Adm. Kevin Lunday said the 74-day lapse threatens utilities at more than 6,000 units and homes and has left an 18,000-case mariner credential backlog.
He said emergency funds used to keep pay flowing could run out in the first week of May, while missed allowances, delayed medical care and unpaid civilians have deepened hardship and damaged morale.
The shutdown began on 14 February amid a dispute over immigration enforcement funding, and House-Senate deadlock showed little sign of easing despite warnings that readiness and retention could suffer.
With thousands of mariner credentials backlogged, what are the hidden risks to maritime safety and commerce?
How will the Coast Guard prevent its members from facing financial ruin during future government funding disputes?