Nashville International Airport<\/a> officials said the federal government has a plan to minimize disruptions to air travel.<\/p>\nMiddle Tennessee State University economics professor Daniel Smith said the last shutdown happened about six years ago.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know there\u2019s been some growing political tensions,\u201d Smith said. \u201cThey\u2019re going to use these opportunities to try to engage in debates and negotiations to try and leverage their party\u2019s agenda in order to force a vote on these issues before approval of the next year\u2019s budget.\u201d<\/p>\n
Smith noted that in previous shutdowns, Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid have continued, although there could be delays for new applicants.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe only concern would be for people applying for the first time for benefits for Social Security,\u201d he said. \u201cIf no essential personnel are let go temporarily, there might be a delay there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Airport officials said that because most employees are considered essential, immediate impacts to flights are not expected. However, the economic impacts of a prolonged government shutdown would be substantial to both the local and regional communities, according to officials.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re going to make sure things are running smoothly and efficiently,\u201d an airport representative said. \u201cThere might be slowdowns, but other than that, all safety protocols will be followed.\u201d<\/p>\n
Still, Smith warned that some Tennesseans will notice changes if a deal is not reached.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere will be some effects, especially for nonessential employees and federal contractors, especially VA hospitals in the area or national battlefields in the area,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Ultimately, Smith said the financial impact will depend on how long a shutdown lasts.<\/p>\n
The White House budget office has told agencies to prepare for broad layoffs if funding lapses.<\/p>\n
This story was reported on-air by reporter Aaron Cantrell and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/i><\/p>\n\n
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<\/center><\/p>\nHunters and fishers: Funding shortfall may cut wildlife and outdoor services<\/p>\n
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One of the best things about Tennessee is its beauty. Reporter, Chris Davis, certainly makes the most of it as an avid hunter and fisherman. When he turned the spotlight on the potential funding shortfall the TWRA is facing – it hit a nerve with many of our viewers. To find out more, make sure to watch this story.<\/p>\n
– Carrie Sharp<\/i><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n