October has kicked off with a federal government shutdown after the president and congress failed to come to an agreement on government programs and services.
Across the country, people are preparing for repercussions in areas from benefits and transportation to healthcare and agriculture.
If you’re curious how life in NYC will be affected as this nation-wide disruption unfolds, we’ll tell you what you need to know.
How the federal government shutdown will affect NYC and state
New York Governor Kathy Hochul revealed areas of concerns for New York, including the following:
- Over 750,000 federal workers are to be furloughed, which includes 115,000 New Yorkers.
- Air travel — which has already experienced issues in the area following the Newark flight cut extension — will experience delays.
- The FAA will be forced to suspend hiring and training.
- Essential federal employees, such as those who work for the TSA, will work without compensation.
- Farmers will work without emergency aide.
- Delays in critical programs like SNAP and WIC are expected, as staff will be affected.
- Processing things such as social security applications and veterans benefits will be disrupted.
- The Statue of Liberty will not remain open as it has during previous government shutdowns.
- Federally-funded attractions will close; National Parks are to remain open
What is a government shutdown?
A government shutdown occurs when the president and congress are unable to reach an agreement regarding annual appropriation bills.
The public will face disruptions and federal employees could be furloughed or forced to work without compensation.
How long will the government shutdown last?
There’s no telling how long this will last.
According to CNN, the last government shutdown lasted 35 days (from December 22nd, 2018, to January 25th, 2019) and an estimated $3 billion in lost GDP. This shutdown in 2018-2019 was the longest the US had seen in over 40 years.
