From Federal News Network:
Shutdown puts a drag on security clearance process
Here’s just a short excerpt; see above link for full article
Background investigations for many government positions, including those that require a security clearance, are continuing to be processed through the government shutdown.
But the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency — which conducts approximately 95% of background investigations across government — has paused some normal operations. And those who closely watch the security clearance space are starting to see delays in processing as the shutdown drags on.
DCSA has also warned that certain activities will be “severely halted or degraded” during the shutdown, including processing National Industrial Security Program facility clearances; conducting cybersecurity visits and assessments; and conducting industry background investigations and interim determinations.
I can only assume that similar impacts are being felt at agencies that don’t use DCSA such as the main IC agencies, maybe DHS, probably DOJ, and State.