This weekend could mark the possible beginning of a government shutdown, where many services and departments of the federal government cease to continue operations. Funding for the government expires this Friday, and both Congress and The White House have to approve a new appropriations bill before then to avoid the shutdown.
Pundits blame the possible shutdown on political discourse between the two major parties, particularly regarding the presidents immigration plans. President Trump has called for appropriations for the funding of a wall around the Mexican border, which has been unpopular amongst many, but has recently said that he is willing to change the funding for the wall if it helps avoid a shutdown.
Republicans think that the possible shutdown can be avoided if the minority party and moderates are more cooperative.
“The Democratic senators could choose to do the business of funding the government rather than engaging in futile efforts to prevent the president from securing our nation,” said Cameron Mixon, chairman of UA College Republicans.
However, polls indicate that the nation is split on who is to blame, and with a Republican-controlled congress and White House, much of the nation is pointing to them for answers to avoid another shutdown like the one in 2013.
The government shutdown would not just affect those who work for it, but also students at public colleges and universities. Without federal funding, students could see a negative impact on their loans, FAFSA operations would be delayed and students looking to study abroad would not be able to apply for a passport.
Many students also have parents who work for the government who would not be paid, and University-funded research could see a slow-down due to a decrease in resources.
For students looking to enter the workforce, job opportunities in the federal government would be temporarily halted until the funding resumes. Federal agencies would have no ability to hire anyone new, which affects students and those already a part of the workforce.
“A government shutdown would not only hurt thousands of federal employees who would be furloughed, but it could also make getting a job in the government for graduating students that much harder,” said Mike Smith, executive director of UA Democrats. “With Republicans in control of both houses and The White House, a shutdown will be on their hands.”
The government shutdown in 2013 lasted 16 days, and although national parks and research were affected, key departments such as Homeland Security stayed open at least in part.
Contrary to popular belief, a government shutdown does not necessarily mean that all operations will be halted. Rather, some portions of agencies and services may be halted for the time being.
