Maryland is rolling out measures to protect workers and programs as a federal government shutdown took effect early Wednesday after lawmakers failed to agree on extending government funding.

Gov. Wes Moore said Wednesday that he had directed state agencies to "use contingency plans" to keep critical services running. He added that he would address Marylanders again on Wednesday evening to discuss the impact of the shutdown.

What happens during a government shutdown?

During a government shutdown, federal agencies halt nonessential functions.

Each agency decides which employees are essential. Active-duty military personnel, federal law enforcement officers, federally funded hospital staff, air traffic controllers, and Transportation Security Administration officers typically remain o

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