WASHINGTON—The Senate on Friday rejected competing short-term funding measures, leaving Washington without a path to avoid a government shutdown when the fiscal year ends at midnight Sept. 30.
With the deadline fast approaching, neither party is showing signs of compromise, POLITICO reported.
Lawmakers are heading home for at least the next nine days—House Republicans not due back until after a shutdown begins, and the Senate is unlikely to act again until less than two days before the deadline, POLITICO noted.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune cautioned that Democrats’ only remaining option may be to accept the House-passed plan backed by Republicans.
“Looks to me like it’s this or a shutdown,” he stated.
Defense Credit Union Council Chief Advocacy Officer Jason Stverak told CUToday.info that his trade group’s members are ready to assist members.
“As Congress debates how to keep the government funded, defense credit unions are already preparing to support the military families, veterans, federal employees, and contractors who could be directly impacted by a shutdown,” Stverak said. “Our priority is making sure no member has to worry about their financial security if their paycheck is delayed.”
Stverak added that credit unions have a “proud history” of stepping up during times like this.
“Whether through emergency relief loans, payment flexibility, or fee waivers—and we stand ready to do it again,” he said. “I also want to reassure members that their deposits remain completely safe and insured. The National Credit Union Administration continues operating regardless of a shutdown, so the stability of our system is never in question. At the end of the day, our mission is simple: people helping people. If there is a disruption, credit unions will be there to ensure our members and their families are supported every step of the way.”
America’s Credit Unions President and CEO Jim Nussle shared his perspective.
"Government shutdowns create immense uncertainty for consumers, especially those who are federal workers, military members, and others who rely on the government for pay and benefits,” Nussle said. “Credit unions are at the forefront of meeting members' needs during challenges caused by a government shutdown, whether through payment deferrals, advance pay options, short-term loans and more. Should a shutdown happen, credit unions will do all they can to provide solutions for those impacted, and America's Credit Unions will urge Congress to quickly come to a resolution to limit any long-term consequences."