State Department Recalls Furloughed Employees

The U.S. State Department said on Thursday it was calling its furloughed employees back to work next week as it takes steps to pay salaries despite a partial shutdown of the government.

"As a national security agency, it is imperative that the Department of State carries out its mission," Deputy Undersecretary of State Bill Todd said in a statement posted on the department's website. "We are best positioned to do so with fully staffed embassies, consulates and domestic offices."