What is closed and open in Birmingham during federal government shutdown

epartment, emergency medical services, water and sewer, sanitation, libraries, and courts — are not funded by Congress and will continue to operate normally.

The Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are currently operational but may face funding challenges if the shutdown persists.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is primarily funded by postage sales and will operate as usual, ensuring delivery and sending of mail. However, individuals planning international travel should anticipate delays in passport processing.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees, classified as essential workers, will work without pay to maintain airport security, ensuring uninterrupted flights at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM).

Social Security checks will be distributed, with 88% of Social Security Administration employees working without pay during the shutdown.

Medicare, Medicaid, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services are currently unaffected but could face disruptions if the shutdown persists.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is mostly funded through the Inflation Reduction Act, allowing its operations to continue despite potential challenges in taxpayer assistance during the shutdown.

Federal courts will remain open, albeit with potential staffing shortages or delays in services.

National monuments like the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument will stay open to the public, with limited staffing at accessible locations and possible closures in physically inaccessible areas.

Alabama’s federal workforce of over 45,000 employees, the highest per capita in the Southeast, will experience furloughs or work without pay, receiving compensation once the shutdown ends.

In conclusion, while the federal government shutdown impacts various sectors, essential services and operations in Birmingham will largely remain unaffected for residents. It is crucial to monitor updates and engage with the community during this period of uncertainty.