What Closes, What Operates If Government Shuts Down

05:55

September 30, 2013

A TSA officer watches as a passenger goes through an airport metal detector. (AP) — Border control agents, air traffic controllers, the FBI and the TSA are among those who would remain on duty. (AP)

Travel won't be affected, because air traffic controllers and airport screeners would stay on the job, and passports and visas would continue to be processed. Mail would still be delivered.

But if you're looking for tax help, you won't be in luck because the IRS's toll-free help lines won't be staffed during a government shutdown.

Ed O'Keefe of The Washington Post joins Here & Now to look at what will happen if Congress fails to reach agreement on a temporary spending bill, and the government shuts down at midnight.

Washington Post: Impact of a government shutdown
NPR: 8 Things To Know About A Government Shutdown
New York Times (infographic): Who Goes to Work? Who Stays Home?

Guest

Ed O’Keefe, congressional correspondent for the Washington Post. He tweets @edatpost.

This segment aired on September 30, 2013.

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