WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — With the government shutdown set to begin at midnight, thousands of federal employees in Central Georgia face the uncertainty of furloughs and unpaid work, while key services and programs risk suspension.

Without a new budget bill, federal programs will pause and workers could be sent home without pay, affecting livelihoods across Central Georgia.

“It’s really a tough time. It’s an impact on people’s livelihood," says Alonzo Sirmans, an Army veteran.

Although his veterans benefits remain secure, Sirmans worries about the impact on other families.

“I’m not a big fan of the impact that it has on families who are serving our country," says Sirmans.

This will be the first shutdown in seven years but not an uncommon one; more than 20 such funding gaps have occurred s

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