Arizona Braces for Impact as Potential Government Shutdown Looms
As Congress struggles to reach a budget agreement, thousands of federal employees in Arizona face the threat of furloughs, potentially starting tonight. This development raises concerns about the operation of key sites such as the Grand Canyon National Park.
The office of Governor Katie Hobbs has not confirmed whether state funds will be allocated to keep the Grand Canyon National Park operational, a measure previously taken during past shutdowns. A spokesperson for Hobbs informed KNAU that the governor is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to minimizing the shutdown’s repercussions.
Governor Hobbs has criticized the actions of the House majority Republicans, stating, “Arizonans should not be held hostage by irresponsible politicians in Washington, DC, especially during the holiday season. We cannot afford this continued chaos from Congressional Republicans who refuse to do their jobs and put everyday people ahead of their political machinations.”
According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, the state is home to over 60,000 federal employees. However, the exact number of those deemed essential and required to continue working remains unclear.
Reports from the Arizona Republic indicate that most federal law enforcement personnel, U.S. Postal Service workers, and air traffic controllers will maintain their duties despite the potential shutdown.
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