WASHINGTON — As the clock ticks down to a potential federal government shutdown, Congress remains gridlocked, with a proposal for a short-term funding extension facing strong opposition from Democrats who prioritize health care reforms. The deadline looms at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday.
Republicans have proposed a measure to extend funding through Nov. 21, but Democrats are pushing back, demanding a rollback of Medicaid cuts tied to recent legislation and an extension of tax credits benefiting health insurance premiums for many Americans.
Both sides appear to be digging in, with no sign of compromise on the horizon and the House of Representatives not scheduled to vote this week.
A government shutdown leads to mandatory closures, with non-essential employees furloughed. Essential workers, including those in law enforcement and the military, will continue their roles without immediate pay.
Previous shutdowns have seen substantial furloughs, and agencies are creating plans to navigate the upcoming closure. While Social Security checks and certain health services will continue uninterrupted, many other functions will be halted.
From air traffic control to public health, agencies have laid out which services will remain active. The U.S. Postal Service, being independent of federal funding, will continue normal operations despite the shutdown.
In prior instances, Congress has ensured back pay for furloughed workers once operations resume, but disruptions can create significant short-term financial strain for many families. Emergency measures are in place as Washington grapples with the implications of an extended shutdown on the economy, emphasizing that while the immediate effects may appear minimal, longer durations can lead to uncertainties and negative impacts.
Republicans have proposed a measure to extend funding through Nov. 21, but Democrats are pushing back, demanding a rollback of Medicaid cuts tied to recent legislation and an extension of tax credits benefiting health insurance premiums for many Americans.
Both sides appear to be digging in, with no sign of compromise on the horizon and the House of Representatives not scheduled to vote this week.
A government shutdown leads to mandatory closures, with non-essential employees furloughed. Essential workers, including those in law enforcement and the military, will continue their roles without immediate pay.
Previous shutdowns have seen substantial furloughs, and agencies are creating plans to navigate the upcoming closure. While Social Security checks and certain health services will continue uninterrupted, many other functions will be halted.
From air traffic control to public health, agencies have laid out which services will remain active. The U.S. Postal Service, being independent of federal funding, will continue normal operations despite the shutdown.
In prior instances, Congress has ensured back pay for furloughed workers once operations resume, but disruptions can create significant short-term financial strain for many families. Emergency measures are in place as Washington grapples with the implications of an extended shutdown on the economy, emphasizing that while the immediate effects may appear minimal, longer durations can lead to uncertainties and negative impacts.
