The U.S. government shutdown Oct. 1 after Senate Democrats voted 55-45 against a Republican bill they felt didn’t adequately address health care demands.
The shutdown means there’s a lack of personnel.
The USDA’s funding lapse contingency plan estimates more than 42,000 people will be furloughed.
“Offices are temporarily shut down,” Dr. Amy Hagerman said. “It’s not just the doors are closed, but the workers can’t check emails or process paperwork. They cannot work.”
Some employees, however, are considered essential and will continue to work while Congress tries to pass the necessary legislation.
These include inspectors at ports and processing facilities, Hagerman said.
As of Oct. 27 the U.S. government shutdown is ongoing.