BEAUMONT, Texas — A government shutdown that began Tuesday night has suspended the National Flood Insurance Program, creating delays for Southeast Texas homeowners and buyers trying to close real estate deals.

Congress failed to pass a seven-week government funding extension Tuesday night. Only two Democrats voted with Republicans to end the shutdown, which has now lasted 18 hours and stretches from Washington to Deweyville.

The shutdown furloughed National Park employees at Big Thicket in Southeast Texas and put national flood insurance on hold. The suspension prevents new policies from being purchased and blocks renewals for existing coverage.

Atasha Quebedeaux, who has worked in real estate for over 20 years, said the loss of flood insurance access will halt home sales.

"Flood insur

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