Leo Gillick
The possibility of a US government shutdown is becoming increasingly likely as both parties continue to fail to agree on a bill funding government services. As the deadline approaches, many are left wondering what a government shutdown would mean for them.
Videos by Rare
What’s the Problem: Democrats and Republican members of Congress are arguing over a bill that extends federal funding for a number of weeks. It is necessary to have this temporary measure in place as lawmakers add the finishing touches to the annual spending bill.
- There are many small issues that both sides are finding with the bill. While neither is willing to compromise, time is running out. If a decision is not made by Tuesday at midnight, a government shutdown will be enacted.
This will have an effect on all federal employees, causing numerous people furloughed until an agreement can be made. Many of the governmental services will be halted pending an outcome. There are also high chances of layoffs, depending on the length of the shutdown.
How It Will Affect The Population
Most people outside of governmental employment won’t notice too much of a change. Certain ‘less essential’ services will be on hold, but the majority of emergency services will still be up and running.
Affected Services: While many essential services will continue, the expected layoffs and furloughs will have an effect.
- Medicaid and Medicare – While the majority of services in this branch will continue, expect delays. Staffing shortages along the employment pipeline will cause some congestion and slowdowns in the bureaucratic process.
- FEMA – The emergency management agency could also be drastically affected by a government shutdown. It has been confirmed that no new FEMA funding will be granted during the shutdown. New policies and programs will also not be put through.
- Air Traffic Control – Certified air traffic control will still be working and paid, but their pay could be affected as time goes on. Those in the air traffic control schools will be sent home until the issue is sorted. This will compound the enormous shortage of 3,000 air traffic controllers.
- CDC – The CDC will see more than half of its current employees sent home.
- NIH – The National Institute of Health will not be taking on any more patients willing to undergo experimental procedures. Existing patients will continue to receive care.
However, services such as Trump’s ICE agents, NASA, and the FDA will mostly continue as normal. Immigrants will still be detained, and the ISS will still be getting its regular supply of oxygen.
