Local Federal Worker Faces Mounting Bills As Paychecks Remain Frozen

On October 1, Sharon W. became one of many federal employees who were furloughed as the government entered its latest shutdown. A dedicated government worker from Sacramento, she has been in the information technology sector since 2007, starting her career as a college intern.Sharon, who prefers to remain unnamed due to concerns about possible repercussions from her role, has served nearly two decades in her department. This situation marks her fourth government shutdown, and despite her experience, the uncertainty brings significant anxiety.As a furloughed non-essential employee, Sharon is now considering driving for rideshare services to manage financially. “I have methods to cope, such as life insurance and savings,” she explains, but desires to engage with life beyond worries about bills.The shutdown commenced at midnight on September 30, following failed funding negotiations, impacting approximately 750,000 federal employees at a staggering cost of $400 million daily in lost wages.