Submission by Dr. Glenn Mollette
The American government shutdown impacts about 1.4 million federal workers, with roughly 700,000 furloughed and another 700,000 deemed essential but continuing to work without pay. This number doesn’t include the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits.
About 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 TSA officers are currently working without pay. Once the government shutdown ends, they will receive their back pay. Because most Americans live paycheck to paycheck, this is a very difficult time.
The shutdown is expected to shave 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points off annualized inflation-adjusted GDP growth per week. It’s also delaying the release of economic data, which could make it harder for the Federal Reserve to make informed decisions on interest rates and monetary policy. However, many economists believe the negative effects will be temporary and will be recovered once normal operations resume.
The major holdup is that Democrats want a spending plan that includes an extension of the COVID-19 pandemic-era enhanced Obamacare subsidies. Republicans want a spending bill first, and then they’ll discuss the extension of those subsidies.
During the government shutdown, the average U.S. congressman makes about $14,500 per month. Their annual salary is $174,000. They also receive government health insurance, matching retirement contributions paid by the government, paid time off, a free gym membership, and other perks.
Members of Congress still receive salaries during a shutdown because the 27th Amendment to the Constitution prevents congressional pay raises or decreases during their current term. Their salaries come from a permanent appropriation that isn’t tied to annual spending bills. They are considered essential workers, even though they’re not directly affected by the shutdown like other federal employees.
Most Americans believe it’s unfair for Congress to get paid during a shutdown while federal workers don’t. Many argue it’s hypocritical and unjust. However, some members of Congress have reportedly chosen to forgo their pay until the shutdown is resolved.
During the shutdown, Americans can contact their representatives to express their concerns, donate to charities helping furloughed workers, participate in peaceful protests or rallies, support local businesses and national parks, volunteer with organizations assisting federal workers, stay informed through credible news sources, reach out to neighbors who are federal employees to offer help, and—most importantly—vote in the upcoming election.
