Given that I deal with the feds daily (CBP, as well as FDA), I was wondering how these agencies were going to be affected. Since my area is the biggest "inland port of entry," both agencies have a large presence here. Representatives from the local trade association met with the local CBP head honcho yesterday. Without being specific, CBP says any cuts will be spread evenly across the board. OT of CBP officers will be cut, but that is a small portion of their budget. Those most affected will be importers clearing perishables or fresh flowers (which need to be inspected). Any possible furloughs wouldn't happen until early-mid April, due to contractual obligations, although that could happen sooner for certain contract employees (IT help desk).

As for FDA: At this time, FDA does not anticipate having to furlough our employees. Other internal measures to absorb the cuts due to sequester will be taken, including reducing travel and training. HHS agencies, including FDA, have not sent the draft OMB memo meant to inform employees of the potential need for furloughs.

Personally, I'm concerned how this is going to affect approval of my brokers license. On Tuesday, I was told the local CBP head had recommended I be granted a license, and all documents were being forwarded to HQ in DC. There is a current backlog of about 400+ license applications, with 2-3 people to go through them and recommend license be granted or not. When I was interviewed by CBP at the beginning of this month, I was told it was going to take at least 90 days, and I'd be lucky if I heard something by Memorial Day!