October 1, 2013 marks the first day in 17 years that our federal government has shut down. Disputes between parties have left the country with no budget agreement and therefore no funding to actually run the government. Everyone is wondering how long the shutdown will continue and how will it effect them. Here in Philadelphia the effects of the shutdown can already be felt a few days in. Here is a list of the top 4 things you should know about the shutdown:
1. This Shutdown could go on for a while.
As of Thursday no agreement had been reached about the new budget. Republicans will only agree to the new federal spending bill if they can delay or defund Obama’s Affordable Healthcare Act, and no one seems to be budging. However, if the shutdown does continue through October 17th (the estimated date that the federal government will hit the borrowing limit) it could be damaging to the US economy.
2. This has happened before.
Before the shutdown of 2013 there have been 17 government shutdowns in our nation’s history. The most recent was in 1995 during the Clinton Administration. There were actually 2 separate shutdowns in the second half of 1995, the first lasting 5 days and the second lasting 21. Let’s hope that this one doesn’t last that long.
3. Some federal workers are on an unexpected unpaid vacation.
Many government workers have been told not to come to work. 46,880 of them are from the Philadelphia and Camden Metropolitan areas. This is about 2% of the regions workforce. Many local businesses are offering free or discounted services to furloughed workers. Philadelphia Sports Club is offering free access to its gyms and workout classes to all furloughed employees for the duration of the shutdown.
4. National parks are closed.
Yes, this means the liberty bell and Independence Hall are not open until the government gets their act together. So, if you have the urge to learn about our nations history you may have to wait a while. Tour guides in the area are concerned about their businesses since the closed locations are among the main attractions for tourists visiting the city.