Union leader: "In a government shutdown, it's the American people who pay the price."

WASHINGTON, April 21, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- J. David Cox Sr., national president of the American Federation of Government Employees, the nation's largest federal employee union, today called on Congress to pass a federal budget and keep the government open for business.

"Congress shouldn't be playing chicken with funding federal programs and services that veterans, seniors, and other hardworking people rely on," Cox said. "In a government shutdown, it's the American people who pay the price."

Unless Congress passes legislation to fund the government past April 28, when the current continuing resolution expires, federal agencies will be forced to shut down most operations.

"The casualties during a government shutdown are endless," Cox said. "There will be no more federal loans issued to small businesses or new home buyers. Federal research into cures for cancer or other deadly diseases will abruptly end. No more applications will be accepted for new Social Security cards, veterans' benefits, and housing assistance. Our national parks, monuments, and museums will be forced to close."

Cox also called on Congress to reject a White House proposal to cut $18 billion from federal agency budgets this fiscal year.

"The administration wants to slash funding for programs that help Americans find affordable housing, protect our environment, educate our children, and deliver mental and public health services to millions," Cox said. "Those who need our help the most would be hit the hardest by these cuts."

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) is the largest federal employee union, representing 700,000 workers in the federal government and the government of the District of Columbia.

For the latest AFGE news and information, visit the AFGE Media Center. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

SOURCE American Federation of Government Employees

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