As the government shutdown continues, AARP is urging Congress and the White House to put partisan politics aside and reopen the government with a clean continuing resolution (CR) that allows for continued debate on larger issues. A strong America requires a working federal government that pays its bills and honors its commitments.
During previous shutdowns, the federal agencies identified essential services, and those activities continued during a funding gap. Typically, border protection, in-hospital medical care, air traffic control, law enforcement, and power grid maintenance have been designated as essential. Other activities that continue include those funded by permanent user fees, such as immigration services and SNAP. Some congressional and judicial staff have been deemed essential, while others are furloughed.
For the thousands of federal workers who are missing paychecks or working without pay, this is not a game. They are invested in the missions of their agencies, whether that’s weather forecasting, cybersecurity, GDP statistics, or something else, and to have to choose between paying their mortgage and credit card payments or buying food for their families is a gut punch.
In addition, a prolonged shutdown will likely affect the broader economy as it slows business activity. This will weigh on the nation’s financial markets, including a potential impact on consumer and corporate confidence. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that a shutdown lasting more than a few days will reduce GDP by $3 billion. In the short term, it will cause economic losses ranging from reduced spending to longer lines at airport security and national parks.