Smith: What a Government Shutdown Means to You and Your Family

Statement

Congressman Adam Smith (WA-9), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding the pending shutdown of the federal government due to a lapse in funding:

"If Congress cannot agree on or pass a budget for the remaining 2011 fiscal year, the government will shut down starting Friday, April 8, 2011 at midnight. I remain hopeful that a government shutdown will be averted. However, prudent management requires that we consider the implications of a shutdown if no funding bill is passed.

"If a shutdown occurs, the government stops all "non-essential" services. Services deemed essential for the safety of human life and protection of property will continue to operate, including the armed forces, border protection, air traffic controllers, and police and fire departments. For more information about how you and your family could be impacted, my office has posted answers to several frequently asked questions on the web.

"In the event a shutdown occurs, my staff will be answering constituent inquiries, pursuing casework as best they can, and assisting with legislative issues. This is a stressful time for many people who deal with the government, including federal workers and military families, and my office will be here to serve the 9th district.

"A shutdown would harm our economic recovery and cost our nation valuable jobs and money. As we move forward in budget negotiations, it is important that we work together to pass a responsible federal budget."

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