Gov. Tim Walz announces plan to ease shutdown impacts in Minnesota

Minnesota will ensure vulnerable residents continue to get services amid the federal shutdown, Gov. Tim Walz said Tuesday, but the state faces potential reimbursement fights, staff layoffs and negative economic impacts if the stalemate drags on.

As the longest shutdown in U.S. history marked its 25th day Tuesday, Walz said his staff is assessing the federal grant money the state depends on for highways, Medicaid, veterans' health care, assistance for needy families and other services. If the shutdown continues much longer, the state may have to send layoff notices to certain staff members and have legislators sign off on using state money to fund programs.

http://www.startribune.com/walz-announces-plan-to-ease-shutdown-impacts-in-minnesota/504379692/