The U.S. government officially shut down on Oct. 1, leaving many federal services and employees in disarray.
Today will mark the third day of the shutdown, and it is expected to extend into next week as Republicans and Democrats still have not closed any deals on voting for a new funding bill.
The gridlock between the two parties ultimately stems from securing funding for healthcare. This includes extending the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) subsidies and reversing cuts to Medicaid from the Big Beautiful Bill.
On the Republican side, President Donald Trump has threatened more federal employee layoffs and threatened to cut “Democrat” agencies, which he posted to Truth Social.
With the intensifying polarization between the two parties, federal agencies and employees are getting the short end of the stick. The Congressional Budget Office predicts that around 750,000 federal employees will be furloughed each day the shutdown continues.
Fresno’s agencies
Fresnans may be pleased to hear that Yosemite National Park is remaining partially open during the shutdown, so far. Typically, in shutdowns, national parks close because they are not considered essential government services.
According to ABC30, Yosemite’s roads, lookouts and trails are still open, along with Yosemite hotels. However, ranger programs and the visitor centers are currently closed.
Student loan and Pell Grant operations remain intact, with Free Applications for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) also staying in process.
However, if the government shutdown continues for longer, it could result in staff who oversee FAFSA complications being furloughed, leading to more delays.
The Food and Drug Administration is considered a non-essential government service, and will not accept new drug applications or medical device submissions that require a payment fee. Inspections of restaurants and grocery stores will also be delayed or halted, leading to a higher risk of food safety issues.
Airports will function as usual because they are seen as an essential government service. However, those employees will be working without pay.
For those traveling soon, it may be wise to head to the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) earlier than usual. FAT’s already-long lines in the morning are expected to be longer with security inspection delays.
