Here’s How the Shutdown Could Affect You This Week in Texas

The federal government officially shut down this week, and while it might sound like “just more government drama,” it could affect you more than you realize.

If you live in Texas, the ripple effects could reach your paycheck, your grocery bill, and even your holiday travel plans.

Texas is home to more than 130,000 federal civilian workers, plus one of the largest military populations in the country. That means thousands of Texans are clocking in without pay, while others are being sent home on furlough.

The last shutdown during Donald Trump’s first term dragged on for 34 days and cost the U.S. economy an estimated $3 billion. If this one lasts as long, the Texans could see major disruptions.

Read More: Now The U.S. Government Wants To Move To Texas. Who's Coming? 

Here’s where Texans might feel the squeeze:

• Food Assistance: SNAP and WIC, which help 800,000 Texas moms and kids with baby formula, food, and immunizations, will not be paused. However, it is “subject to the availability of funding,” and it is predicted to run out quickly.
• Doctor’s visits: VA medical centers will stay open, but regional offices shut down, so veterans needing benefit help or transition counseling could be left waiting.
• Travel plans: TSA agents and air traffic controllers will continue to work, but will do so without being paid.
• National Parks: The gates may be open, but bathrooms, trash pickup, and visitor centers will likely not be staffed.
• Border security: Customs and Border Protection will keep running, but without pay, adding stress to already stretched operations at Texas checkpoints and ports.