AFGE Urges ‘Clean’ CR as Federal Employees’ Financial Strain Worsens
The federal government shutdown has now reached four weeks, causing significant financial strain for approximately 1.4 million federal employees who missed their first full paychecks last week. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) has voiced strong discontent over the situation, urging Congress to prioritize a clean continuing resolution (CR) to end the shutdown. AFGE President Everett Kelley emphasized the need for political leaders to resolve this issue without further delay.
Call for a Clean Continuing Resolution
Everett Kelley indicated that it is critical for Congress to halt the political stalemate. He asserted, “No half measures, and no gamesmanship. Put every single federal worker back on the job with full back pay — today.” His comments reflect a growing urgency among federal employees affected by the ongoing crisis.
Current Legislative Efforts
While AFGE intensifies its demands, Congress remains stalled in reaching a government spending agreement. Recently, Senate lawmakers proposed various bills aimed at providing immediate pay to federal workers. However, disagreements regarding furloughed employees’ pay and other critical issues have stalled progress.
- The GOP-led Shutdown Fairness Act was rejected in the Senate.
- Two Democratic proposals aimed at broader payment for federal employees also failed.
- Senator John Thune (R-S.D.) has suggested reconvening to discuss the Shutdown Fairness Act.
Impact on Federal Workers
Many federal workers face grave financial hardships without pay. AFGE’s Kelley highlighted that these individuals, including parents and veterans, are dealing with difficulties covering essential living costs due to political disputes in Washington.
A survey by the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS) union revealed numerous accounts of employees struggling with increased living expenses. PASS President Dave Spero voiced concerns over the cumulative impact these financial strains are having on federal workers.
Health Insurance Premiums on the Rise
Adding to the burden, federal employees will soon face a notable increase in health insurance premiums. Starting in January, those in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program will experience a 12.3% rise in average premiums, while enrollees in the Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) program will see an 11.3% increase.
Long-Term Financial Concerns
Doreen Greenwald, President of the National Treasury Employees Union, stated that these rising costs further exacerbate an already challenging financial situation for federal employees. With federal pay raises projected at only 1% in 2026, many employees are concerned that income will not keep pace with the increasing costs of living.
- Federal employees and annuitants will see a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2026, which some argue is insufficient.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) annuitants will receive a reduced COLA of 2% next year.
Legislative Opportunities
The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE) is advocating for the Equal COLA Act to ensure all federal retirees receive equitable cost-of-living adjustments. Despite its continuous reintroduction, the legislation has failed to gain traction in Congress.
In conclusion, AFGE’s Kelley strongly urged lawmakers to take immediate action to end the government shutdown. He called for a clean continuing resolution to ensure that federal workers receive their back pay. The ongoing financial strain on federal employees requires urgent legislative attention to restore stability and address rising costs.
