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NARFE Disappointed By Lack of Progress on Continuing Resolution, Looming Government Shutdown

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (December 21, 2018) – In response to the House and the Senate not agreeing to a continuing resolution that would avert a partial government shutdown, NARFE National President Ken Thomas issued the following statement:

“As we sit here on the precipice of another government shutdown, the last one still lingering in our memories, I urge Congress and the president to remember the roughly 800,000 federal employees who are pawns in this game of political chicken.

“Those forced to stay home due to Congress’ and the president’s inaction and blatant indifference have no guarantee of back pay. Federal employees are hardworking professionals, not numbers or statistics, entering a holiday season without the promise of a paycheck through no fault of their own. And, they are individuals with whom Congress and the president have shown to be out of touch. This is not a free vacation for them, but rather a time filled with anxiety and uncertainty.

“A government shutdown is the worst scenario that can occur as a result of a legislative impasse. They create a lasting, negative effect on government operations, American citizens relying on federal programs and services, and national and local economies. Yet, we find ourselves here once again.

“I urge Congress and the president to find a mutually agreeable path forward and prevent a third government shutdown this year. Federal employees must not continue to be collateral damage in political battles.”
 

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The National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association (NARFE), one of America’s oldest and largest associations, was founded in 1921 with the mission of protecting the earned rights and benefits of America’s active and retired federal workers. The largest federal employee/retiree organization, NARFE represents the interests of 5 million current and future federal annuitants, spouses and survivors.

CONTACT:
Jill Talley
NARFE Deputy Director, Public Relations
jtalley@narfe.org
(703)838-7760