The White House has taken proactive steps to prepare for a potential government shutdown as the deadline for annual funding approaches. In an email sent to staff on Thursday, initial guidance was provided outlining the necessary preparations in case of a lapse in government funding.
The email highlighted that the funding for much of the government is set to expire on Friday, December 20th, emphasizing the urgency for Congress to finalize appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025. Should a shutdown occur, all components of the Executive Office of the President and their employees would be impacted.
The White House is actively updating contingency plans to ensure an orderly shutdown of affected activities in the event of a funding lapse. Staff members were informed that designated employees would be furloughed during the shutdown period but assured that they would receive retroactive pay once the government resumes operations.
To stay informed, employees were asked to update their contact information, and in the event of a shutdown, notifications would be sent via text to personal phones and emails to personal and work addresses.
An accompanying document with frequently asked questions provided additional guidance on the necessary steps to take if a shutdown occurs, aiming to streamline the process for employees.
The White House's proactive approach in issuing guidance underscores the importance of preparedness in navigating potential disruptions due to a government shutdown. By keeping employees informed and providing clear instructions, the administration aims to minimize the impact of any funding lapse on its operations.
