Catherwood LibraryILR School

As the federal government shutdown extends beyond a week, hundreds of thousands of furloughed workers face mounting anxiety over missed paychecks and growing debt. Employees from the National Labor Relations Board told several sources that the shutdown halts investigations into unfair labor practices and leaves both staff and the public without crucial services. Workers earning under $50,000 are especially vulnerable, with many considering credit cards or loans to get by. Others still on the job, like a Department of Veterans Affairs employee, described worsening morale and “moral injury” amid ongoing layoffs and political gridlock. Despite hardships, many federal workers say they remain committed to public service.