Likely Government Shutdown Could Furlough Millions

With federal funding set to expire at midnight Oct. 1 and budget talks stalled, a government shutdown appears likely unless Congress reaches a deal. Essential services such as the U.S. Postal Service, TSA, active military operations and parts of Social Security would continue, but millions of federal workers could be furloughed or required to work without pay, creating financial strain and the prospect of layoffs. Universities and research programs expect immediate disruptions — existing grants may continue but new awards, renewals and administrative reviews could be delayed and student aid processing may slow. Health-care funding tied to Medicaid and Affordable Care Act subsidies could be interrupted, potentially driving sharp premium increases for some low-income people (estimates cited as high as 600%) and delaying nutrition programs like SNAP. Community organizations such as food banks warn of rising demand if the shutdown stretches for weeks, and local impacts will vary by state depending on which agencies are affected.