Shutdown Begins, Impacts Idaho
The federal government entered shutdown status this week after lawmakers failed to agree on a new funding bill. Nearly 11,000 federal employees work in Idaho, many in agencies such as the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, which are already experiencing furloughs.
Every agency has a contingency plan, with some operations continuing under reduced staffing while others pause until funding is restored.
Fulcher Calls Shutdown “Unnecessary”
In an interview, Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-Idaho) said the shutdown could have been avoided.
“This is truly an unnecessary shutdown,” Fulcher said. “The House did its job. We sent a continuing resolution to the Senate to keep the government funded until November 21. There were no earmarks or strange policy insertions.”
Fulcher noted that while some federal workers may face furloughs, he expects agencies will need those employees back once Congress restores funding.
Debate Over Proposals
The Senate has not advanced the House’s resolution. Democrats countered with a proposal that would extend certain health-care subsidies and reverse Medicaid cuts.
Fulcher said that approach would affect Idaho communities, especially smaller facilities. “We have a lot of rural hospitals, and the most recent rural hospital funding would go away under the counterproposal,” he explained.
Programs Still Operating
Despite the shutdown, several federal programs continue to function, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Residents concerned about impacts are encouraged to contact Fulcher’s office.
Fulcher emphasized that constituent feedback is important for resolving the stalemate. “It’s going to be constituent pressures that ultimately push us across this impasse,” he said.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
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