The federal government shut down on Oct. 1 after Congress failed to come to an agreement on funding it. While many critical government programs and services are on hold, federal courts are still operating for now – and no matter what happens in D.C., Earthjustice’s work to protect the environment will continue. The courts can stay open for a short period following a government shutdown by tapping into revenue sources that don’t come from Congress, such as case filing fees. In addition, some federal district courts have issued orders putting on hold any civil case where the U.S. government is a party – a category that includes many of Earthjustice’s legal fights. For as long as the federal courts remain open, we will continue to show up in them to fight for a better future for our planet and its people.