As the clock struck midnight, the Government funding expired resulting in the shutdown of the Government after multiple failed attempts to come to an agreement over a bill on September 30, meaning that we are entering into week four due to numerous funding bills failing to pass. The dispute resulted from opposing opinions regarding healthcare fundings, military funding and partisan deadlock. This action marks the first federal Government shutdown since 2019 and could become the longest U.S Government shutdown if not resolved by November 4. 

How does this challenge the nation?  

Ultimately, during the Government shutdown thousands of federal employees are being furloughed. This means they are sent home without pay, causing the financial instability of many workers. The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 states that all employees who missed paychecks are required to be compensated after the shutdown has been resolved. A leaked draft memo from the Office of Management and Budget, has caused debate about the legal requirements of backpay, leaving workers weary and uncertain of their income. President Donald J. Trump’s comments at the White House on October 7 cast further doubt about the future of backpay for furloughed workers. “I can tell you this: The Democrats have put a lot of people in great risk and jeopardy, but it really depends on who you’re talking about. But for the most part, we’re going to take care of our people. There are some people that really don’t deserve to be taken care of, and we will take care of them in a different way,” Trump said.

How will this affect Hillsborough citizens?  

Mayor John Ciccarelli said he wants to assure residents that the Government shutdown is being closely monitored to guarantee the security of Hillsborough citizens. He confirmed that all  Hillsborough Township departments are fully operational such as Police, Public Works, Administrative Offices, and the Office of Emergency Management. However, the main concern lies within those who are employed through federal agencies who are facing unpaid leave from work. “This financial strain is significant, and we encourage any residents affected to contact local, county, and state resource agencies for assistance. The County and State have resources available to help mitigate these personal financial burdens,” Ciccarelli said. 

Ciccarelli further stated that a prolonged Government shutdown can affect funding of projects for infrastructure, housing assistance, and environmental protection and impact agencies such as Federal Emergency Management Agency and, but the local government in Hillsborough is prepared.“We have a robust local emergency response structure in place that is not dependent on the immediate federal operating budget and are prepared to manage local emergencies,” Ciccarelli said. 

The Somerset County Board of Commissioners declined to comment on the federal government as it is outside of the its direct control.