Union leaders say unpaid federal work and staffing gaps threaten inspections and worker stability in Minnesota

Union and state officials warned the Minnesota Senate Special Subcommittee on Federal Impacts that the 30‑day federal government shutdown is straining federal staff and the services they provide to Minnesotans.

"Employees could be accepted or partially accepted 1 day and furloughed the next," said Brian Garthwaite, president of AFGE Local 3381, describing how FDA consumer safety officers and support staff are compelled either to work without pay or be placed on furlough under the Anti‑Deficiency Act. He said the work includes domestic and international inspections, entry reviews at ports and recall coordination, and that prolonged lapses can reduce surveillance and delay removal of unsafe products.

Garthwaite said back pay is a statutory promissory right but cannot be used as…