What could close in gov't shutdown

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - As lawmakers work to pass a state budget, preparations for a government shutdown are underway.

If a budget is not passed by midnight Wednesday there might be a forced shutdown of many state government-run agencies, which includes everything from state parks to the lottery to the BMV.

"In the event that we don't have a budget most non-essential state agencies will be shut down.  That would include state parks and many other properties managed by DNR," said Phil Bloom.

Governor Mitch Daniels announced the possibility of a state government shutdown if legislators do not pass a state budget by midnight July 1.  The Governor said he has the authority to keep public safety agencies open, but most other government functions will stop. 

It's the busy season for state parks and the potential shutdown is worrying some parkgoers.

Michael Maksymicz is one such parkgoer, visiting Indiana from his usual home in Florida.

"Where do we go next, start drifting south or whatever because we have plans to stay up here?  We have activities planned for the next two or three weeks that we have to go to, so I don't know what we're going to do," said Maksymicz.

Those hoping to play the lottery may also be left wondering what to do.

"The Hoosier Lottery and our staff is in the process of reviewing our next steps in case of a government shutdown.  And, at this time we have really not worked out the details," said Hoosier Lottery Public Relations Director Andrew Reed.

The possibility of the Hoosier Lottery being taken away makes one Lafayette man unhappy.  Dave Meilner said he plays the lottery twice a week.

"I'd be kind of disappointed. It's fun to play. I invest a few dollars and win a few once and awhile.  So, we can't have that. I wouldn't want to see that," said Meilner.

If you need anything at the BMV you may want to head there Tuesday before a possible state shutdown.

State leaders said public safety agencies would remain funded and operating if a budget is not passed.

These agencies would include the Indiana Veterans Home in West Lafayette, State Police, prisons, the Indiana National Guard, homeland security and psychiatric hospitals.