Aberdeen Reacts to Shutdown: ‘How Do They Expect People to Pay Their Bills?'

The government shut down at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, and for many workers at Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), that meant their paycheck was in question indefinitely.

"How do they expect people to pay their bills and put food on their tables? This is making me sick to my stomach," Crystal Parker of Belcamp wrote on the Bel Air Patch Facebook page.

Some federal workers may be required to work during the government shutdown without pay but they will be compensated afterward, according to CNN.

“My husband gets to work for free today at APG...thanks government!” Mike-Vickie Davis posted on Harford County radio station WXCY’s Facebook page.

APG employees, who already went through furloughs over the summer, said more unpaid work could put them into the red.

"If we were to go into a moderate government shutdown, I'd probably have to file for bankruptcy," Rob Meritt, an IT professional at APG and father of four, told CNN.

Aberdeen resident Nikki Macomber said she was already planning for a "leaner" holiday season for her four children and was considering looking for part-time work outside her career as a data collector at APG, if the shutdown continues for more than a few days, The Baltimore Sun reported.

As the budgetary situation remains in limbo, entry gates were operating on a "furlough schedule" at the proving ground; Army Community Services was reducing its offerings; and the library was closed until further notice.

"The U.S. Army Garrison, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Headquarters, Headquarters Company will continue to provide Soldier Service during the government shutdown," APG reported on its Facebook page; services still available include in and out processing.

How is the government shutdown affecting you? Tell us in the comments! Also, join the conversation—on the Aberdeen Patch Facebook page.