Gordon Preps Wyoming for Possible Federal Shutdown, Pledges Short-Term Pay Backstop

With Washington staring down a midnight Oct. 1 deadline, Gov. Mark Gordon says he’s tracking the threat of a federal shutdown and has a plan to cushion Wyoming workers who rely on federal dollars.

In guidance sent to state agencies, the governor’s office said Wyoming will temporarily pick up the tab for state positions that are fully or partly funded by the feds, as it has during past shutdowns, to keep services running and residents from feeling the pinch.

Gordon’s chief of staff, Drew Perkins, told cabinet leaders the state will cover short-term gaps in federal commitments embedded in the state budget so paychecks continue and programs don’t stall. If a shutdown drags on, though, Wyoming may have to make tougher calls, including pausing federally funded contracts and programs or furloughing employees whose salaries depend on federal money.

Perkins noted that any state dollars fronted under federal obligations are expected—though not guaranteed — to be reimbursed once Washington reopens for business.

“Wyoming is not unfamiliar with the impacts of gridlock in Washington, DC, and as we live within our means, the state is well-prepared in the event of a federal government shutdown,” the memo said.

With input from Oil City News and Wyoming Tribune Eagle.