Tens Of Thousands Of Federal Workers FurloughedGetty Images Getty Images loading...Tens of thousands of federal workers are on furlough with a government shutdown now in effect. How Shutdown Impacts New YorkersGetty Images Getty Images loading...A government shutdown isn’t just politics in Washington; it has real consequences for New Yorkers. Furloughed workers: Federal employees may be forced to stay home without pay or work without paychecks. Contractors: Unlike federal workers, contractors usually don’t get back pay, leaving many in financial trouble. Impact on Benefits and AssistanceGetty Images Getty Images loading...Programs considered “mandatory spending” are more insulated, but shutdowns still create problems for applicants and agencies.