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We are now in the midst of the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history, and the situation continues to threaten Hoosier families, small businesses and local economies.
While the U.S. economy has suffered a loss of at least $18 billion dollars, the effect that this shutdown has had on families is immeasurable. Essential federal employees are asked to work without being paid, military service members are unsure if they will receive their next paycheck and Indiana could see an increase in unemployment of 900 workers. |
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These are just some of the groups, individuals and programs affected by the federal shutdown:
Travelers and essential airport workers, including Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers. Some FAA and TSA employees are mandated to show up to work despite not receiving paychecks. Travelers across the country face delays and cancelled flights. Mortgage and Housing programs are slowed or paused and the National Flood Insurance Program is unable to issue new policies to homebuyers in flood-prone areas. Loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration or Veterans Affairs face significant delays, while loans backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture have been put on hold, creating uncertainty for Hoosier homebuyers and the overall housing market. Hoosier small businesses are negatively impacted, as over $13 million in Small Business Administration (SBA) loan distributions meant for Indiana businesses have been delayed each week during the shutdown. Additionally, an estimated 39,000 civilian federal workers in Indiana are affected through furloughs or working while unpaid, potentially reducing their spending levels. Those who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are facing uncertainty about their ability to put food on the table. Nearly 600,000 Hoosiers use SNAP benefits, an estimated 228,000 of whom are children. As of Nov. 5, many Hoosiers will receive partial benefits one week later than normal and some may not receive any benefits until funding is fully restored. Hoosiers in need of assistance are encouraged to call 2-1-1 or contact their local food bank. I also encourage any community member who can to donate to local food drives or pantries to support our struggling neighbors. I urge members of the U.S. Senate who are voting to keep the government closed to stop the political games and get back to work for the people they serve. Sincerely, |
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