Local impact in the Delaware Valley from the government shutdown

Maggie Kent Image
Sunday, December 23, 2018
Local impact in the Delaware Valley from the government shutdown
Local impact in the Delaware Valley from the government shutdown. Maggie Kent reports during Action News at 5 p.m. on December 22, 2018.

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The federal government shutdown is having an impact on some major attractions here in Philadelphia.

The shutdown means major monuments are closed until further notice.

There were lines of folks taking selfies outside the building that houses the Liberty Bell on Saturday, which could still be seen through a window.

The Velez family traveled hundreds of miles to get here.

"Instead of doing gifts this year we took a trip to Philadelphia and I'm a big history buff and we were really excited to see the Liberty Bell," said Whitney Velez of Virginia.

Unfortunately, National Park Service buildings, including the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall, are closed and will remain closed as long as there is a lapse in federal funding.

The government shutdown means federally-run agencies will either remain closed, like our local landmarks, or employees typically paid federally will work without pay and receive back-payment once a budget is agreed on by Congress and signed by President Trump.

It's important to note especially during this holiday time, the post office, and TSA are still operational.

Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security are unaffected by the shutdown.

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