The current federal government shutdown has become the second longest in U.S. history, leaving many Nevadans feeling the effects. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress are pointing fingers at each other, while everyday lives are disrupted more each day.
Food pantries are facing challenges. Workers at Nevada’s nuclear security site have been furloughed. On October 15, active-duty military members received their first paycheck delays, and many more state workers will miss paychecks on October 28.
Recently, the state Department of Human Services warned that food stamps for nearly 500,000 Nevadans could stop if the shutdown goes on into November. This news adds to the growing concern surrounding essential support for families in need.
With no resolution in sight, Nevada’s congressional members have been vocal. They’ve held town halls and public discussions, blaming each other for the fallout. Democrats want to negotiate on extending Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which support about 22 million Americans. Republicans have said they’ll only discuss subsidies after the government is reopened.
SNAP
On Friday, Rep. Steven Horsford (D-NV) wrote a letter urging Governor Joe Lombardo to do more for SNAP recipients. “The shutdown is political gamesmanship,” he stated, insisting that there should be action to prevent harm to Nevadans reliant on these benefits.
Governor Lombardo indicated that the state cannot replace SNAP funding without setting up a complicated emergency program. He emphasized that Congress needs to collaborate to end the shutdown.
At a town hall, Annette Magnus-Marquart from the advocacy group MomsRising shared alarming stories from families. She highlighted worries about rationing food or essential items like baby formula. Families are already struggling with rising food prices, making this situation critical.
Congresswoman Dina Titus also noted that the state has managed to maintain funding for programs like Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) but that SNAP is different. “You can’t just backfill it,” she explained. With 15% of Nevadans at risk of losing this support, the stakes are high.
Health Care
Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) highlighted that many people could lose their health insurance due to the shutdown. She pointed out that the upcoming expiration of ACA subsidies could significantly raise insurance costs. According to a study by KFF, these changes could lead to an average premium increase of $76 per month for Nevadans using the marketplace.
Lee held discussions with community members about rising health care costs. Anna Marie Binder spoke about how the ACA had reduced her child’s medication costs significantly. Another speaker, Heather Doto, explained how losing coverage could force her to choose between her health and that of her children.
Lee warned that if the shutdown continues, the situation could worsen, leaving the state struggling to manage the fallout.
Federal Workers
Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV) criticized Democrats, claiming they are holding the government hostage. Meanwhile, Las Vegas has been highlighted as a city struggling with reduced air traffic control staffing because of the shutdown. This has raised concerns about safety in air travel.
Amodei’s spokesperson mentioned that ensuring pay for federal workers is essential, but the solution lies in reopening the government. Recent reports indicate potential Senate votes next week regarding pay for military members and air traffic controllers.
Despite internal disagreements, it’s clear that the shutdown is causing real pain for Nevadans. From delays in SNAP benefits to health care uncertainties, the situation needs urgent attention. As discussions unfold, many families continue to wait anxiously.
