A government shutdown is a disruption to the public. It affects a multitude of services that people depend on, such as the national parks, air traffic control, and medical research. It also impacts the economy by disrupting services like food assistance, rent vouchers, small business loans, and weather forecasting.
Government shutdowns occur when funding legislation is not passed before the start of a new fiscal year. During a shutdown, the federal government ceases activities that are not essential for the protection of human life and property, furloughs non-essential workers, and keeps only those employees whose duties directly support the delivery of vital services. While some services are exempt from a shutdown (like social security checks, Medicare payments, and the Post Office), others are not.
Federal programs provide millions of children with education, health care, economic security, and other critical life staples. When these programs are interrupted, it can lead to delays in distributing benefits, closed offices, and long-term harm.
Latinos for America First is calling on Congress to pass a bill that would prevent a government shutdown by passing a clean continuing resolution. This legislation is the only way to ensure that American families can keep their lights on, their houses warm, and their pantries full. The Democratic leadership has the ability to end this shutdown by putting aside their ideological differences and prioritizing American’s stability. They must take action now!