Federal Shutdown Delays Pay For 13,000 Minnesota, Iowa National Guard Troops

The ongoing federal government shutdown is causing significant financial strain on National Guard troops across various states, as they are required to continue their duties without receiving pay. In Iowa, about 1,800 Guard members deployed in the Middle East will not be paid until the government reopens, though they are considered essential and cannot be furloughed. Similarly, the Minnesota National Guard reports that 13,000 soldiers are not receiving pay, with upcoming training drills canceled, but back pay promised after the shutdown ends. In Nevada, over 300 federal technicians with the National Guard have been furloughed, reducing the workforce to two-thirds, which may impact future training and administrative functions. Historically, Congress has acted to protect military pay during shutdowns, but this time, a similar protective bill failed to pass, prolonging the financial uncertainty for these service members. Despite these challenges, all active-duty National Guard personnel remain obligated to serve throughout the shutdown.