The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced significant impacts due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, with potential furloughs and office closures looming if the situation persists.
If the shutdown continues through early November, DHS will furlough an additional 1,500 employees and temporarily close offices in every county starting Nov. 10.
DHS Secretary Janet Mann expressed concern over the strain on services, stating, “The government shutdown has put enormous strain on many services we offer, and we are deeply concerned that important benefits Arkansans rely on will suffer as a result.”
She urged federal partners to reopen the government to allow DHS to focus on its mission of helping those in need.
The shutdown has already led to the furlough of 34 additional DHS employees and the suspension of funds for programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and Social Services Block Grant (SSBG).
SNAP benefits for November are also at risk of disruption if no resolution is reached soon.
DHS offices will close to public access if the shutdown extends beyond Nov. 7, affecting approximately 1,500 employees.
While Medicaid applications will continue to be processed, SNAP applications and renewals will be paused, leading to expected delays when operations resume. Beneficiaries can manage their cases online and access the Medicaid call center for assistance.
DHS will provide updates on the situation as it develops.