UPEC Watches Possible Federal Shutdown

Monday, February 28, 2011

HEADQUARTERS - The federal government is currently operating on a Continuing Resolution (CR) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2011. The CR expires on Friday, March 4.

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives passed a CR on February 18 which includes $60 billion in cuts from FY 10 levels, and also completely eliminates funding for public broadcasting, community development block grants and other programs. However, the House bill goes too far and will still harm federal workers due to the steep funding cuts. The Democratic-controlled Senate has stated the the House level of cuts is too steep and will not agree to the House bill. President Obama has also stated that he will not agree to the House bill.

“The House was fully aware this bill would not pass. They only pushed the bill through that included these deep cuts for political gain and not a sincere effort to get the job done”, said UPEC Business Manager Chris Darker.  “Both sides of the isle need to start working for the American people and not their political party”, Darker said.

Congress - House and Senate - was in recess last week and come back into session today.  Therefore, they will not be able to pass any legislation including a CR this week.
Since the CR expires on March 4, that only gives Congress 5 days this week to come to a deal, pass on legislation, and send it to the President for his signature.  The Republican-controlled House has stated it will not pass even a short-term CR extension unless it contains spending cuts.

What this means for federal workers?  There is a chance that the federal government could shut down if Congress and the President do not agree on a deal by this Friday, March 4. If that happens, workers will be deemed either essential or nonessential by their Agencies. Essential workers will continue to work and nonessential workers will be furloughed. Federal workers should take reasonable and common-sense actions at this time to take care of themselves and their families in case of a shutdown.

Business Manager Darker stated, “I am taking steps this morning to contact our federal Agency management and request information under EO 134522 and Chapter 71, Section 7114(b) about what plans their Agency is making to prepare for a possible government shutdown. I have asked my Federal Labor Representatives to prepare to exercise the provisions of our contract’s in the event it becomes necessary. I recommend our members ensure that our office has your personal email so that we can expedite further information to you and your family.”

Members should contact UPEC Office Tech. Patti Wyatt by phone or email to update your information at:  800-241-1890 or .