Rep. Casten Votes to Keep the Government Open, Deliver Emergency Relief, Prevent Catastrophic Default
Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (D-IL) voted for critical legislation that would keep the federal government open, secure emergency funding to help communities devastated by natural disasters and help resettle Afghan refugees fleeing persecution, and prevent the federal government from defaulting on their payments. This bill is essential to ensuring that the government can continue to deliver essential services that families depend on, while also preventing a first-ever default on the federal debt that would have a catastrophic impact on the American economy.
"Today, I proudly voted to keep the federal government open so that Congress can continue our work," said Rep. Casten "As our economy continues to rebound from the COVID crisis, we cannot afford to derail our economic growth and put at risk the livelihoods of American families. That is why Democrats have acted swiftly to keep the lights on so the government can continue to deliver essential services that so many families depend on, as well as acted swiftly to prevent the utter catastrophe of an unprecedented debt default."
This legislation:
- Secures government funding through December of this year, ensuring the uninterrupted operations of essential government services and allowing for Democrats and Republicans in Congress to continue to advance appropriations priorities through the regular order process for Fiscal Year 2022.
- Delivers emergency funding for urgent priorities, including relief funding for communities devastated by this summer's record-breaking natural disasters and funding to resettle Afghan refugees after the historic evacuation effort in August.
- Suspends the debt ceiling through December 2022, so that the federal government can continue to meet the financial obligations it has already made, including Social Security and Medicare benefits, services for veterans and paychecks for members of the military.
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