Government shutdown
Printed in the Republican 2019
Carrie Writes
Government Shutdown
Carrie Barrepski
Since the government shutdown started, it has affected millions of people, from those working without a paycheck to cutbacks in different programs that are affecting peoples’ everyday lives. Many of them have been without work and are trying to find different ways to get bills paid.
This is the longest government shutdown in history. It is affecting people with disabilities, from working in a federal workshop, living in subsidized housing or receiving food stamps. However, primary federal agencies are able to still serve people with disabilities, such as the Social Security Administration, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the US Department of Education.
Federal data shows that as of 2016, 14% of the federal government workforce has a disability. At this time, 800,000 federal workers are either furloughed or have been working without pay since December 22.
There are concerns that many individuals with disabilities may have to pay for medication, equipment and staff out of pocket. Many programs that help people in need have been affected, such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development that help people rebuild or subsidize living costs. Another concern is that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program may run out of funds in February. It is known that one quarter of food stamp recipients are disabled. Another area of concern is a lack of staffing for people with disabilities who need daily support.
Now is the time for the country to come together and help and support all citizens of our country in their daily living needs.