TL/DR –
The government shutdown has entered its second week, affecting approximately 750,000 federal employees. The Trump administration, specifically the Office of Management and Budget, has indicated that there might not be back pay for furloughed workers, in contrast to the 2019 shutdown where a law was signed guaranteeing back pay. The shutdown is costing the U.S. economy an estimated $15 billion each week.
Government Shutdown Impact on Federal Workers
WASHINGTON – One week into the government shutdown, the burden may fall on federal employees. Recent updates suggest possible lack of back pay for these furloughed workers, causing fear and uncertainty.
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Backpay Uncertainty
According to FOX 5’s Melanie Alnwick, the latest threat from the Trump administration is seen as a pressure tactic by House Speaker Mike Johnson. However, many Congress members insist the law ensures back pay for federal workers.
In the 2019 government shutdown, back pay for federal employees was guaranteed by a law signed by President Trump. Now, a possible loophole emerged with the Office of Management and Budget director asserting that back pay should be explicitly stated in any government funding bill.
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Economic Impact
Since the shutdown a week ago, approximately 750,000 federal employees have been furloughed, with others in essential roles still working. If no agreement is reached by Congress before Oct. 15, all will miss their next paychecks.
The U.S. economy is losing an estimated $15 billion every week due to this shutdown, as per White House estimates.
The Source: Information in this article is derived from the Associated Press.
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