PEORIA, Ill. (25 News) – Congress and the White House have until October 1 to get a budget signed and passed to avoid a government shutdown.
But, if the shutdown occurs, who’s to blame for the situation depends on whom you talk to.
25 News spoke with Republican Congressman Darin LaHood of Dunlap and Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen of Rockford.
LaHood said he has voted for a continuing resolution that would keep the government running until November 1.
“That bill that we passed to keep the government open is sitting in the U.S. Senate right now,” LaHood said. “I hope Chuck Schumer takes it up and votes for it this week, because if not, there’s going to be a Schumer shutdown, and we can’t allow that to happen,” LaHood said.
Sorensen said he is traveling back to Washington first thing Monday morning in case he’s needed. Sorensen says the delay is because of Republicans.
“It’s a flagrant irresponsibility as far as I’m concerned,” Sorensen said. “We need to avoid a Republican shutdown, and so I’m going to be there at the table, I will be there in the United States Capitol,” he said.
Congress has been on break for the Jewish High Holidays.
Should a government shutdown occurs, Social Security checks will still be disbursed, while federal workers considered essential, such as TSA employees, would have to work without pay, although they would get back pay once a new budget is signed.
National parks will remain open, although there were no visitor services during the last major shutdown.
Also, the Food and Drug Administration may have to halt food inspections.
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