Mass. officials prepping for payroll disruptions during possible government shutdown

Massachusetts officials are proactively preparing for payroll disruptions as a government shutdown appears imminent. The state Office of the Comptroller and the Executive Office of Administration and Finance sent a memo to fiscal officers, demanding contingency plans by next Tuesday. Agencies must outline how they will protect residents and resources without assuming additional state funding will be available. The memo underscores the risk to the General Federal Grants Fund, prompting officials to seek updates from the federal government on grant disruptions. Concerns center on the ability to process bi-weekly payroll for employees funded through federal sources.

Federal agencies would cease all non-essential functions during a shutdown, further complicating state operations. The memo highlights the need for agencies to prepare for potential spending cuts. As political tensions rise, both sides of Congress face pressure to negotiate funding solutions.