Bishop: Only Skeleton Crew Remains at Plum Island During Shut-Down

The Federal Animal and Disease Center at Plum Island has been affected by the partial government shut-down that started on Oct. 1. 

According to Congressman Tim Bishop only sensitive research or activities related to national security at the Plum are currently exempt from the shutdown. 

Bishop said he is awaiting official confirmation on the research center's furlough schedule, but said he believes that only 20 of the disease center's 650 employees remain working. 

"Researchers have undoubtedly been sent home unless they fall under the exemption," said Bishop. "Therefore, only a skeleton crew to protect the island and perform critical maintenance is likely to be in place."