Broad Industry Consensus Urges Passage of Clean Continuing Resolution to End U.S. Government Shutdown
A bipartisan majority in Congress has approved a clean, nonpartisan continuing resolution (CR) to reopen and fund the federal government through November 21, allowing time for appropriations to progress.
However, the legislation is being blocked by Senate Democrats, resulting in a government shutdown that forces federal employees to work without pay and disrupts essential government services. Numerous industry groups and organizations across various sectors such as agriculture, transportation, healthcare, construction, energy, and veterans' affairs have voiced strong support for the clean CR.
They emphasize that shutdowns slow economic momentum, delay critical infrastructure projects, disrupt public safety and national security functions, and impede vital programs like the National Flood Insurance Program and veterans' healthcare services. Aviation-related organizations highlight the increased stress and safety risks posed by the shutdown due to unpaid air traffic controllers and TSA officers. Agriculture groups warn of disruptions during critical harvest periods, compounding existing economic challenges faced by farmers and ranchers.
Construction and infrastructure sectors report delays in permit processing and project execution, threatening economic growth and public safety. Energy associations stress that government funding is vital for domestic energy production and regulatory certainty. Veterans’ organizations call on Congress to protect funding essential for healthcare, housing, and mental health initiatives for veterans, especially vulnerable populations. Business groups point to widespread economic uncertainty and the negative impact on small businesses reliant on government contracts and services. Law enforcement and federal workers raise concerns over working without pay, which threatens morale and community safety.
The shutdown also risks disrupting cybersecurity efforts and border security operations, further impacting national security. The consensus across stakeholders is that a clean continuing resolution would maintain government functionality and economic stability without the inclusion of extraneous policy provisions. The call is for elected officials to set aside political differences and pass the clean CR promptly to avoid further disruptions and economic harm.