Air Force Announces Civilian Hiring Freeze

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Air force senior leaders announced a force-wide civilian hiring freeze to prepare for the looming possibility of sequestration.

Civilian pay makes up a large portion of the Air Force's budget, and with the uncertainty of the budget shortfall of nearly $1.8 billion dollars, the Air Force is taking immediate actions.

Lt. Gen. Darrell Jones, deputy chief of staff for Manpower, Personnel and Services, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C sent down the order saying:

"These are uncharted waters concerning the federal budget and the effect it will have on the Air Force."

Robins Air Force Public Affairs Officer, Robert Lipham said officials still aren't sure what this means for the future of the base.