How the federal government shutdown affects USD, South Dakota

The federal government shut down Tuesday for the first time in 17 years after the U.S. Congress failed to approve a bill to fund the government for the next fiscal year. The shutdown is not expected to directly affect University of South Dakota operations.

How Government Shutdown Affects USD

• The U.S. Department of Education will furlough 90 percent of its staff.
• Most federal financial aid such as Pell Grants and Direct Students loans will continue as normal.

How Government Shutdown Affects Vermillion

• The U.S. Postal Service will continue normal operation.
• The Missouri National Recreational River located in Vermillion does not have entrance gates so the river will still be open to the public. Seven employees will be furloughed.

How Government Shutdown Affects South Dakota

• The National Park Service will close and secure all national parks including Mt. Rushmore and Badlands National Park.
• South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard offered the National Park Service  the opportunity for state employees to run the operations of Mount Rushmore. NPS said they cannot hand control of the park to the state.
• The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms will stop processing all applications for firearms.
• The Bureau of Indian Affairs will stop disbursement of tribal funds for operations, payment of financial assistance to needy individuals and to vendors providing foster care and residential care.
• The BIA will continue law enforcement, social services, emergency support and delivery of water and power.
• Federal courts will remain open for 10 days.
• President Barack Obama signed a bill late Monday allowing continued military pay and allowances.
• The Affordable Care Act or “Obamacare” will implement as expected Tuesday.