In fact, just last month, with the Federal Aviation Administration authorization up for extension, Congress let authority for this important agency lapse and thousands were furloughed.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Tells Congress to Pass Extensions

The administration's funding authorization expires Sept. 30, and it needs more money to address the booming volume of air traffic, primarily because the air traffic control system needs safety and security upgrades.

FORBES: Magazine Article

Congressional infighting last month over union rules and subsidies for small airports caused a lapse in authorization for the Federal Aviation Administration as well as the airline ticket taxes that help fund it.

FORBES: Congressional Waste: The FAA and Airlines Taxes