Overview

• The Smithsonian said its museums, research centers and the National Zoo will operate through at least Monday, Oct. 6, if a federal shutdown begins.
• Officials said the plan relies on prior-year funds and that any updates will be posted on the Smithsonian website after the announcement was shared on X.
• The institution’s footprint includes 17 museums and the National Zoo in Washington, two museums in New York City, and eight research centers.
• According to its website, the Smithsonian’s current federal appropriation is about $1 billion, with appropriations, grants and contracts making up just under two-thirds of its funding.
• With Republicans and Democrats still far apart at the deadline, a shutdown could pause federal paychecks until the government reopens with retroactive pay.