The federal government shut down at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday after Congress failed to pass a funding bill.
Officials say Social Security offices, veterans’ clinics, and Head Start centers in Sonoma and Napa counties remained open, though staffing cuts could limit services if the shutdown continues.
Critical services like Social Security, Medicare, and mail delivery will continue, while federal courts, national parks, and USDA agencies may face strain. Thousands of local federal workers are affected.
The Muir Woods National Monument and sites in the Marin Headlands also closed Wednesday due to the federal government shutdown. Parking lots and visitor centers were closed, though some restrooms remain open and park rangers are on duty.
Volunteers were told to stay home, and ongoing projects, including salmon habitat restoration at Redwood Creek, are paused. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy said the closures highlight the importance of national parks to the economy, environment, and community.
Visitors are urged to follow “leave no trace” practices and avoid closed areas.