Congress Fails to Pass Budget Resolution, Shuts Down Federal Government

Smith: The Congressional budget year runs through September 30, and the clock has recently run out. Emily Buckman, director of government relations for the American Farm Bureau Federation, said Congress was unable to reach an agreement to keep the federal government open.

Buckman: Republicans, which hold the majority in both the House and Senate, have insisted on passing a clean funding bill, which means legislation with no controversial policy provisions attached, while a democratic minority has wanted to pass a temporary funding bill that would address Affordable Care Act premium subsidies that are due to expire at the end of the calendar year.

Smith: Buckman said the shutdown will affect some of the services offered to farmers and ranchers.

Buckman: So, for instance, local USDA office services are diminished, making it difficult for rural Americans to access important programs and services. Farmers can't take out loans, including mortgage and crop loans. A shutdown impacts disaster payments that help farmers make it through times of crisis.

Smith: The House previously passed a continuing resolution that will fund the government into November, which the Senate is now trying to pass. Buckman says it will take both chambers working together to bring the shutdown to a close.

Buckman: Farm Bureau has urged the House and Senate to work together to pass legislation that funds the government, so they can get back to work on other matters, including the regular appropriations process, as well as reevaluating the farm bill. A government shutdown impacts all Americans and has serious consequences, including for farmers. It just adds additional uncertainty, disrupts critical services.

Smith: Chad Smith, Washington.