Dear FAMMily,
As you may know, Congress was unable to agree on a deal that would fund the federal government by the September 30th deadline. As of today, the federal government is officially shut down. All non-essential federal government employees have been furloughed (placed on unpaid leave until the government is funded) and the government is only carrying out essential activities.
What does this mean for the Bureau of Prisons? As far as we know, this means that many of the central office staff are furloughed, but correctional officers are deemed essential workers and will remain working, albeit without pay. Given the staffing challenges already facing the Bureau of Prisons, we believe this shutdown will impact operations within federal facilities.
We cannot predict exactly how the shutdown will impact day-to-day life for your loved ones incarcerated in federal facilities. As we head into these uncertain times, we do so together. We will continue to share updates with you as we receive them. But we also need to hear from you – please share with us what is going on with your loved one on Facebook in our FAMMilies in Action Facebook page or in this story form.
Other families and FAMM count on hearing on-the-ground reports from you to know what’s going on.
For FAMMilies with loved ones in state prison systems, the federal government should not have a substantial impact on your loved ones’ day-to-day.
FAMM will continue to update you all as Congress works to resolve the shutdown and re-open the federal government.
Sincerely,
