The federal government shutdown has now stretched into its 13th day, and the effects are being felt both in Washington and across the country. In Nebraska and the Great Plains, federal employees, contractors, and programs tied to the region are beginning to experience delays and disruptions.
Treasury officials say the shutdown is starting to impact the broader economy. Thousands of federal employees remain furloughed, and more than 4,000 have received notices of potential layoffs. Military pay continues to be prioritized, but other agencies are facing postponed payments, halted contracts, and delayed services.
Locally, programs that rely on federal support — including agricultural assistance, rural development initiatives, and federal research projects — are seeing slowdowns. Communities that depend on federal offices or grant programs are beginning to feel the ripple effects. For example, Nebraska farmers awaiting timely updates or assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture may face delays, and federally funded research centers and environmental programs have paused operations.
Many popular federal attractions, including museums and the National Zoo, remain closed due to lack of funding. Meanwhile, public data releases, grant processing, and other administrative functions are delayed nationwide.
Congress has yet to reach a resolution. The Senate has been unable to pass a short-term funding bill, while the House remains out of session. Both sides continue to place blame on each other, with no clear end to the shutdown in sight.
Experts warn that if the shutdown continues, the economic impact could deepen, affecting not only federal employees but also local communities and industries that rely on government programs and support.
What This Means for You
- Federal employees and contractors: Many remain furloughed and may experience delayed pay. Some have received notices of potential layoffs.
- Farmers and rural communities: Assistance programs through agencies like the USDA may be delayed, affecting loan approvals, disaster aid, and other services.
- Local businesses: Companies that rely on federal contracts or government funding could face interruptions or delayed payments.
- Residents and travelers: Federal offices, research centers, and popular attractions like museums may be closed, and public services could be slower.
- Everyone: Delays in federal reports, data releases, and grant processing could affect planning for businesses, schools, and local governments.
The shutdown’s effects are spreading beyond Washington, and how long it continues will determine the depth of its impact on workers, communities, and local economies.