Veterans are heroes; they don’t deserve a shutdown

Veterans are the embodiment of dedication to our nation, but many don’t realize that their commitment doesn’t end with their military service.   Almost 1 in 3 federal workers are veterans, and the U.S. government is the largest employer of disabled veterans. Many continue to serve by taking on pivotal roles in the federal government—from the Transportation Security Administration to the Federal Bureau of Prisons.   If the extreme Republicans who control the U.S. House don’t pass a budget deal by next Friday—a deal that doesn’t make devastating cuts to the programs that working families depend on—then the government could shut down, posing risks to those veterans’ paychecks and their ability to pay their bills. Will you take a moment to support our veterans? Sign now to tell your member of Congress: No cuts to veteran-supporting programs and no shutdown. A shutdown would also affect the essential services, benefits and economic stability of all veterans, creating long delays and challenges enrolling in government services and programs. That financial stress and uncertainty during a shutdown could exacerbate mental health issues that are common in the veteran community. And a government shutdown could result in the temporary closure of national memorial sites, crucial spaces for reflection and remembrance for veterans and their families. That’s why we need your help to urge Congress to say no to extreme budget cuts that could hurt veterans and their families across the country.

Veterans don’t deserve to have their livelihoods used as a political football. Their sacrifice and dedication deserves recognition and stability, not uncertainty. They deserve a budget that creates good jobs and protects veterans and their families, not another shutdown. Tell your member of Congress: No cuts to family-supporting programs and no shutdown! Thank you and happy Veterans Day.