Velázquez Statement on the Federal Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON- Today, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) released the following statement regarding the shutdown of the federal government:

"Republicans have shut down the federal government, walking away from their duty to the American people to advance a cruel agenda. Instead of staying in Washington to negotiate, they left town, taking a vacation while millions of Americans face the prospect of soaring health care costs from expiring ACA tax credits. Because of their inaction, millions of families are now paying the price with frozen paychecks, higher premiums, and vital services grinding to a halt.

"The Republican 'Big Ugly Bill' delivered the largest cut to Medicaid in our nation's history while handing out massive tax breaks to billionaires. Now, unless ACA tax credits are extended, millions of Americans, including thousands of families across Brooklyn and Queens, will see their health care costs skyrocket.

"Democrats have been united in our efforts to protect health care, lower costs, and keep the government open. We will not rubber-stamp a budget that strips coverage from working families and raises costs in service of more giveaways to the wealthy. My fight is, and will always be, for the nurses, teachers, parents, and small businesses who deserve a government that works for them.

"Republicans must come to the table to address the health care crisis they have created. Until then, they are on their own."

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