How A Potential Government Shutdown Could Impact People In Massachusetts
How A Potential Government Shutdown Could Impact People In Massachusetts - In Massachusetts alone, approximately 24,000 federal employees face uncertainty, with around 500 working for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These EPA employees conduct field testing, review permit applications, and could be locked out of work if a shutdown occurs.
Oct 01, 20234701 Shares69134 Views
As the possibility of a federal government shutdown approaches, concerns are growing about the impact it could have on vulnerable Americans who rely on federally-funded programs for assistance.
One such program is the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which provides food assistance to low-income pregnant women, new mothers, and young children. Shaunea Tavares, a WIC beneficiary, expressed her worries about the potential shutdown's impact on her 2-year-old son, Khalib, who depends on WIC for essential nutrition. She emphasized the importance of WIC in providing milk, fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious items for her child.
Sharon Scott-Chandler, the President of Action for Boston Community Development, highlighted how the most vulnerable individuals would be disproportionately affected by a government shutdown. These individuals are already struggling to access resources they need, and the uncertainty surrounding WIC and food assistance adds extra stress to their lives.
Federal employees are also bracing for the potential shutdown. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent Mike Gayzagian, who has experienced two government shutdowns, described the financial strain it placed on him and his colleagues. TSA employees, like many federal workers, would be required to work without pay if a shutdown occurs. Gayzagian emphasized the need for Congress to pass a spending plan to avoid such situations.
The blame for the potential shutdown is falling on a small group of House Republicans who have been unable to reach an agreement. Speaker Kevin McCarthy has struggled to gather enough votes to move forward, leading to internal divisions within the party. While some House Republicans have pushed for radical bills, the looming shutdown remains unaddressed.
In Massachusetts alone, approximately 24,000 federal employees face uncertainty, with around 500 working for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These EPA employees conduct field testing, review permit applications, and could be locked out of work if a shutdown occurs. Undine Kipka, the Union President representing EPA workers, highlighted the challenges faced by federal employees in the Boston area, where the cost of living is high, making paycheck dependency crucial for many.
As the deadline approaches, Americans across the country are watching closely and hoping for a resolution to prevent a government shutdown that could have widespread consequences for those in need and federal workers alike.
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