Good Morning CWOs, Former CWOs, Families and Friends!
I trust this message finds you well amidst the flurry of circulating news regarding the potential government shutdown. It is imperative at times like these to arm ourselves with accurate information to avoid unwarranted panic. There are many inaccuracies being propagated, and our aim is to curtail misinformation to ensure you have the facts.
Recent talks have highlighted the Senate's introduction of two pieces of legislation aimed at securing pay for the Coast Guard and the entire DOD amid the looming shutdown. Despite these efforts, both bills were dismissed, reflecting the current political gridlock.
The intricacies of the situation are as follows: With the Democrats controlling the Senate, the duty falls on them to present a government budget to the White House. Conversely, the Republicans, who currently control the House, face internal divisions that may threaten the stability and negotiation power of the elected Speaker. Unlike past shutdown scenarios, the current setup poses a risk of not only a budget deadlock but also a potential vacancy in the Speaker position, which would further delay the resolution process.
Notable attempts to address the issue include Senator Cruz and Sullivan's introduction of the Pay Our Coast Guard Act and the Pay Our Military Act on the Senate floor. Although these legislations bear merits and ought to be passed posthaste, they are primarily contingency measures, not solutions to the core budgeting dilemma. Their relevance comes into play if a shutdown materializes post-Sunday deadline.
As of now, Democrats remain firm on their stance for a comprehensive budget, with the potential for more flexible negotiations regarding individual federal agencies materializing post-Sunday. Our particular concern is to ensure the Coast Guard's funding is secured in any arrangements made.
A silver lining to the current deadlock is the halt in defense spending on the 1st of the month, a hiatus not witnessed since 1877. This pause reflects the gravity of the current situation and further underscores the necessity for an expedient resolution.
CWOA is ardently advocating for your pay rights, aligning forces with organizations like the CPOA, American Legion, VFW, and MOAA to prevent the recurrence of the 2019 scenario where the Coast Guard pay was momentarily compromised.
You can lend your support by signing the American Legion’s petition to remind Congress of their obligation. Furthermore, engaging with your local Chapter provides a support network to navigate any challenges a government shutdown may present: https://www.votervoice.net/AmericanLegion/Campaigns/107855/Respond
As Sunday's deadline approaches, the urgency escalates. The Congress holds in its hands the ticking time bomb set to detonate at 2359 on the 12th, threatening the pay disbursement due on the 15th.
We invite you to seek clarity and stay informed during our Zoom meeting today at 1230 to discuss any updates we have from the Hill.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87872184847
Meeting ID: 878 7218 4847
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,87872184847# US (New York)
+13017158592,,87872184847# US (Washington DC)
We hope to see you there to disseminate accurate information and foster collective preparedness.
I am also available to address any concerns or questions you may have. In unity, we shall navigate through these turbulent waters.
Very Respectfully,
CWO4 (Honorary) Michael J. Little
CWOA Executive Director
