U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (PA-08) has written an opinion editorial addressing the ongoing government shutdown, which has entered its second week. The editorial was first published in The Times Tribune on October 12.
Bresnahan criticized Senate Democrats for what he described as blocking a bipartisan solution to reopen the government and ensure pay for servicemembers. “As the government shutdown drags into its second week, Senate Democrats continue to block a bipartisan solution that would reopen the government and pay our servicemembers,” wrote Rep. Bresnahan. “Because of their inaction to keep the government working for you, Pennsylvania families are suffering and paying the price.”
He highlighted the effects of the shutdown on various groups, including federal employees, small businesses, veterans, seniors, and families who rely on federal programs. Bresnahan pointed out that over 10,000 federal employees in his district are affected, such as those at Tobyhanna Army Depot, Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport, U.S. Penitentiary at Canaan, and Social Security Administration offices.
Bresnahan also discussed his proposed legislation, H.R. 5695, known as the No Taxation Without Operation Act. The bill aims to halt income tax collection during a government shutdown and protect federal workers from being taxed on backpay received after working without pay during such periods. He stated: “That is just another ridiculous double standard that only flies in Washington. That is why I introduced H.R. 5695, the No Taxation Without Operation Act to halt the collection of income taxes while the government is shut down. It would also protect federal employees and contractors that work without pay during a shutdown, ensuring they do not pay taxes on any backpay they receive.”
According to Bresnahan, House Republicans have advanced a clean funding bill intended to keep current spending levels without new policy changes or spending cuts. He said he voted for this measure because it maintains services for small businesses, veterans, seniors, and ensures continued pay for federal employees.
However, Bresnahan accused Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of blocking this bill in the Senate: “Unfortunately, Chuck Schumer has blocked this bill and refuses to reopen the government.” He noted that bipartisan cooperation is necessary due to Senate rules requiring 60 votes to pass spending bills.
Bresnahan also referenced his support for extending enhanced tax credits under the Affordable Care Act as part of bipartisan efforts to provide stability for families while Congress works toward long-term solutions on healthcare costs.
He cited an estimate from the National Economic Council indicating that each week of the current shutdown costs the economy $15 billion.
In conclusion, Bresnahan called for measures to prevent future shutdowns by supporting automatic extensions of government funding when appropriations lapse and requiring Congress to remain in session until spending bills are passed.
“The people of Northeastern Pennsylvania expect their government to work as hard as they do,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “They get up early, put in long hours, and find a way to make things work even when times are tough. They deserve a Congress that does the same. It is time to reopen the government, pay our workers, and get Washington working again.”
