A government shutdown disrupts the everyday lives of American families and puts the long-term progress of children at risk. It delays benefits, closes offices, and puts many people without a paycheck for the first time in their lives. It also deprives the economy of vital activity and slows economic growth.
The federal workforce includes millions of contractors whose work is critical to national security, public safety and disaster response. When funding lapses, contracts stall, projects are put on hold and key staff is pulled off the job. This is particularly true for agencies like the Department of Justice, where employees who protect citizens from terrorist attacks and other dangers are required to work without pay, and the Centers for Disease Control where a lack of funds will halt vital research into outbreaks.
While many agencies have contingency plans that will allow them to continue providing essential services during a shutdown, the longer the shutdown, the more significant the impact on the public and businesses. In addition, a government shutdown impacts the security of the nation’s financial system. Credit card companies, banks and utility providers are aware of the impact a government shutdown can have on their customers and may be able to make arrangements to postpone payment due dates for federally issued loans or other financial obligations.
Congress must end the political brinksmanship and pass a clean continuing resolution to keep the government open for all Americans. The federal government has been through many shutdowns before, including a 21-day shutdown under President Bill Clinton and a 16-day shutdown under Obama in 1995.