The United States federal government was officially shut down as of 12:01 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1, due to a lack of agreement in Congress on a Continuing Resolution for federal government funding. 

Despite this development, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe will continue to operate as usual. Through prudent financial management, the Tribe is well-positioned to maintain essential services and support for the tribal membership. The Southern Ute Health Center, operated under a 638 contract, is tribally managed and will continue normal business operations. 

It is important to note that this update is specific to the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Other tribal nations may experience different impacts depending on their funding structures and federal agency involvement. 

At the federal level, essential services such as active-duty military, law enforcement, air traffic control, VA hospitals, and Social Security and Medicare payments are expected to continue. However, non-essential services – including National Parks and Monuments – are likely to be suspended. 

The Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Ute Agency will not be operational during federal shutdown. However, Fire Management and Branch of Irrigation will remain on-duty for emergencies only. 

The Tribe remains committed to serving the Southern Ute membership and will continue to provide timely updates and support throughout this federal disruption.