What is a government shutdown and how could it affect Georgia? Here’s what to know
Shutdown this and shut down that. Americans have been under the threat of “government shutdown” for weeks and even though the House narrowly passed a spending bill on Tuesday, the Senate has to approve it to get it to President Trump’s desk before the looming deadline, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.
A government shutdown happens when the House of Representatives and Senate can’t pass bills to fund daily government operations. With a shutdown still a possibility, here’s what to know.
What is the big picture of a government shutdown?
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget published a statement on their website on March 5 titled, “Government Shutdown Q&A: Everything you need to know,” to help the layperson understand what’s happening.
A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass funding legislation for federal agencies and programs.
Without this funding, non-essential government operations stop, and many federal employees are furloughed (temporarily laid off) or required to work without pay until funding is restored.
This could become increasingly complicated as more federal workers are laid off as a result of the Department of Government Efficiency’s efforts and the court rulings overturning them.
How Does a Shutdown Affect Services?
During a shutdown, services deemed “essential” continue, but many others are paused or scaled back. This process is governed by the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits federal agencies from spending money without congressional approval.
Here’s how it impacts services:
“Essential” services continue: Law enforcement, air traffic control and military operations continue. Social Security and Medicare benefits are still distributed.
Non-Essential services could halt or slow down: National parks, museums and federal research projects may close. Passport processing and IRS customer service could slow down.
Safety net programs could slow: SNAP (food stamps) and WIC (nutrition support for women and children) may face delays if the shutdown persists.
Public health agencies will operate at reduced capacity: This includes CDC, FDA, and HHS.
What can Georgians expect?
The Georgia Department of Labor warns a government shutdown would have specific effects in a few key areas in the state.
Federal employees: There are 85,000 federal workers in Georgia, including 70,000 active-duty military personnel, who may have to work without pay or face furloughs.
Local safety net programs: The Georgia Department of Public Health anticipates that over 220,000 mothers and children across the state could potentially lose grocery assistance.
National parks: Iconic sites like the Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library could close or operate without visitor services.
Farmers: Georgia’s 39,000 farms could lose federal loans and disaster assistance.
What can you do to prepare?
There’s not a whole lot the average citizen can do, generally, besides advocating for a resolution. You can contact your Congressional representatives to express your fears about a shutdown.
However, there may be a few things you can do, specific to your own situation to feel a little safer:
If you are a federal employee, budget for potential delays in paychecks.
If possible, access your SNAP or WIC benefits early.
Keep track of updates from local authorities about service interruptions or closures.
The situation remains undecided, but Senate negotiations are underway and there is still a chance for resolution before a total shutdown.
What are your major concerns if the government shuts down? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on Instagram.
