Government shutdown could have major impacts on Mainers

STATEWIDE -- The federal government is officially shut down after lawmakers failed to pass a funding bill. The shutdown is already impacting thousands of Maine employees.

As of midnight Wednesday, the U.S. Government is shut down, triggering a ripple effect that is impacting services and putting thousands out of work.

The political parties have been in a bitter standoff over healthcare spending.

The Maine Center for Economic Policy says without action, millions will see premiums spike or lose coverage altogether

"This is about health insurance and it's about making sure the executive branch honors Congress' power to purse," said Garrett Martin, President and CEO of Maine Center for Economic Policy. "What we know is that there is potential for additional economic harm, as a consequenc