Shutdown Would Harm Economy, Trust in Government 

September 14, 2023

The Partnership for Public Service today released the following statement from President and CEO Max Stier urging congressional leaders to keep the federal government open and serving the people as the Sept. 30 funding deadline looms: 

“Even the threat of a government shutdown requires significant planning and preparation from federal agencies, which necessarily detracts from agencies’ core work. The uncertainty damages morale among the federal workforce. Shutdowns damage the economy and further erode public trust in government. There should always be room to debate and resolve legitimate policy differences in the budget process. There should never be room, however, to deny Americans the effective government they deserve. 

“The most notable recent shutdown, over a 35-day period from December 2018 through January 2019, disrupted not only highly visible agencies such as the National Park Service but paused federal operations critical to public safety, such as inspections related to hazardous waste, drinking water and chemical facilities. Further, a 2019 Senate report found that the government shutdowns in 2013, 2018 and 2019 cost taxpayers nearly $4 billion. 

“Congressional leaders must do everything in their power to prevent this from happening again. Members should expeditiously consider the appropriations bills that have already gone through the committee process providing specific agencies with the necessary funding to make strategic decisions, invest in talent and innovation and continue work on behalf of the public.” 

Every year, Congress is required to approve appropriations bills funding the federal government. Since implementation of the Congressional Budget Act in 1977, a shutdown has happened 21 times. 

During the past 22 years, the nonpartisan, nonprofit Partnership for Public Service has been dedicated to building a better government and a stronger democracy. We work across administrations to help transform the way government works by providing agencies with the data insights they need to succeed, developing effective leaders, inspiring the next generation to public service, facilitating smooth presidential transitions and recognizing exceptional federal employees. Visit ourpublicservice.org, follow us @PublicService and subscribe today to get the latest federal news, information on upcoming Partnership programs and events, and more.  

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