State makes contingency plans for federal government shutdown that could permanently end jobs, programs
- Mark Sabbatini
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
Officials will ‘reassess and prioritize programs that most directly impact the life, health, and safety of Alaskans’ if situation is prolonged, governor says as Wednesday shutdown looms
By Mark Sabbatini
Juneau Independent
This is a developing story.
Contingency plans for essential federal programs administered by the state are being prepared in case of a federal government shutdown starting Wednesday, Gov. Mike Dunleavy said Monday.
The Trump administration has stated that, unlike previous shutdowns where workers were temporarily furloughed, employees will be fired and programs eliminated if the current impasse is not resolved. A two-page administration memo states those permanent actions will involve programs “not consistent with the President’s priorities.”
President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with top congressional leaders Monday to discuss the shutdown. Congressional Republicans are proposing a temporary spending plan through Nov. 21, while Democrats are seeking an extension of expiring health insurance subsidies that could result in many Alaskans facing far higher premiums.
A press release issued by Dunleavy states Alaska has kept state-administered, federally funded programs operating during previous federal government shutdowns.
"The State is preparing to do the same in this instance, using available funds and following the most up-to-date guidance from federal agencies," the release states. "If a shutdown were to continue beyond a month or if funding conditions change, Alaska will reassess and prioritize programs that most directly impact the life, health, and safety of Alaskans."
Medicaid, Title IV-E Foster Care and Adoption Assistance are expected to continue during a shutdown because of existing authorizations or funding streams, according to the release. It notes "other programs may operate differently depending on congressional and agency actions."
Similarly, about 4,800 state executive branch positions that are at least partially funded by the federal government "are expected to continue reporting to work and receiving pay, subject to any future federal guidance," the release states.
"A small number of federal employees embedded within state departments will follow the procedures established by their agencies," the release adds.
An FAQ about unemployment insurance for furloughed workers published by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development notes "employees that are 100% furloughed may be eligible," but "exempt" employees required to continue working — such as air traffic controllers — without pay are not. The department also notes "because the duration of the furlough is unknown, you will be required to register for work through the AlaskaJobs, post an active resume on AlaskaJobs, and conduct and report work searches."
• Contact Mark Sabbatini at editor@juneauindependent.com or (907) 957-2306.
