Potential Federal Shutdown Looms, Impact on Minnesota Detailed

Federal Government Shutdown Could Impact Minnesota Workers

In Minnesota, with a potential federal government shutdown looming, most of the 27,000 workers may face furloughs and delayed paychecks.

Essential workers, such as air traffic controllers and TSA agents, will continue working without immediate pay during the shutdown.

During the longest government shutdown in 2018 and 2019, lasting 35 days, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport experienced significant disruptions due to TSA agents not reporting to work.

Concerns have been raised by individuals at MSP about flying during a government shutdown, as the financial strain on workers could impact their daily lives.

President Trump has threatened to terminate thousands of furloughed workers if a shutdown occurs. Republicans require 60 Senate votes to pass a spending bill to prevent a shutdown, but with only 53 Republican senators, Democrats are demanding the restoration of $1 trillion in Medicaid cuts.

Minnesota Senator Tina Smith emphasized Democratic unity in advocating for constituents' interests during this critical period.

In the event of a shutdown, federal offices in Minnesota will close, while essential services like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments will continue. However, programs such as supplemental nutrition for women and children may face funding shortages.

Post offices will remain operational, ensuring mail delivery services are unaffected.

Esme Murphy, a long-standing member of WCCO-TV and radio, has been reporting since 1990 after graduating from Harvard University. Born in New York City, she is a prominent figure in journalism.