HealthJuly 15, 2026

logjam

/ˈlɒɡ.dʒæm/

Definition

A situation where progress is stalled or blocked by a buildup of unprocessed items, bureaucracy, or inaction.

Etymology

Originating in North American English in the late 19th century, it describes a literal tangle of floating logs that blocks a river. By the mid-20th century, the term was adopted into political and business contexts to describe any situation where a series of obstacles prevents forward movement.

In the news

In this article, 'logjam' refers to the political and administrative delay preventing the New York Senate from confirming nominees to oversight boards, leaving many positions vacant. This backlog of pending appointments prevents the boards from operating at full capacity.

Albany Has Let Disability and Mental Health Oversight Boards Wither Away

Read the full article ↗

New York Focus

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