MASCOUTAH, Ill. (AP) - Thousands of civilian workers at Scott Air Force Base in southern Illinois will soon begin receiving furlough notices.

The Belleville News Democrat reports workers will be informed that they must take one day per week of unpaid vacation between next month and September because of mandatory federal budget cuts referred to as the “sequester.”

The newspaper says the workers will receive the 30-day notices in the mail by the end of the week.

The air base near Mascoutah employs almost 5,600 civilian workers. Base officials say those exempted from the furloughs include firefighters and others who hold jobs are considered essential for base safety and security.

Budget analysts estimate the unpaid furloughs will result in reduced spending and cost the St. Louis region at least $28 million.

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