The wheels of government are griding to a halt as Republicans and Democrats in Congress let a Sept. 30 deadline go by without passing a funding bill.

In Georgia, parks and many federal offices closed down to the general public. Other “essential” services — like federal law enforcement and airport services — remain open.

Both sides are talking tough, and it’s unclear how long this shutdown might last. The White House has threatened to fire thousands of workers, a move that could transform the federal workforce for years to come.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s reporters are monitoring the impacts of the shutdown on citizens and federal workers. Stay here for updates throughout the day. Ron McEarchern 1759183737 Politics - Gov't Shutdown updates

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