Federal Workers Face Unpaid Work as Government Shutdown Hits Week 5
As the government shutdown enters its fifth week, federal workers face the daunting prospect of unpaid work. Numerous payday deadlines are approaching, yet little progress has been made towards resolving the impasse. The Senate is set to reconsider a House-passed plan aimed at reopening the government, but previous attempts have consistently failed.
Senate Dynamics in Times of Crisis
Senate Democrats, spearheaded by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., are adamant about securing a deal to extend Obamacare’s premium subsidies. Conversely, Senate Republicans, including Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., prefer to handle this matter only after the government reopens.
- Chuck Schumer emphasizes healthcare negotiations.
- John Thune insists on separating funding from healthcare discussions.
Thune pointed out that the current Democratic stance seems more political than rooted in healthcare needs, pushing for a cleaner continuing resolution (CR) to get federal workers back to their jobs.
Impact on Federal Workers
Time is running out for key federal employees facing payment delays. Air traffic controllers are expected to miss their first complete paycheck soon, while military service members are anxiously awaiting their pay due on October 31.
Concerns have escalated about the potential impacts on federal nutrition assistance programs, which are also poised to face funding shortages.
Proposed Legislation and Blockages
Senator Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has introduced a bill aimed at addressing the funding gap. However, its fast-tracking to a vote has not yet been prioritized. Additionally, efforts by Senator Ron Johnson, R-Wis., to ensure pay for troops and certain federal workers during the shutdown have been obstructed.
- Proposal by Johnson blocked by Senate Democrats.
- Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., also faced challenges with similar proposals.
Van Hollen expressed concerns over giving unchecked authority to budget officials, highlighting the urgency of supporting workers affected by the shutdown. He has vowed to continue working on solutions to compensate those impacted.
Union Response and Calls for Action
The American Federation of Government Employees, representing over 800,000 federal workers, has voiced strong support for a clean CR. Everett Kelley, the union president, highlighted that workers facing hardship shouldn’t be victims of partisan politics.
- Kelley stresses the need for immediate government reopening.
- Calls for back pay for all affected employees.
Kelley remarked on the national disgrace of workers seeking food bank assistance due to the shutdown, urging leaders to prioritize responsible governance that respects its workforce.
The current situation emphasizes the critical need for a functional government that meets its obligations to its employees, ensuring they receive their rightful pay during this tumultuous period.
