Congressional Delegation Visits Germantown Service Center; Will Speak Regarding Federal Shutdown

Montgomery County officials are set to host a delegation of Members of Congress, including Representative April McClain-Delaney and members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus, for a visit to the Sidney Kramer Upcounty Regional Services Center in Germantown. The visit, scheduled for Wednesday, October 1st, aims to highlight the potential impact of federal government shutdowns on essential services and local communities. The delegation will tour the facility to observe firsthand how staff deliver critical health and human services, income support, and public health programs to residents.

Following the tour, a press conference will be held at 1:00 p.m. ET to discuss the findings and the broader implications of federal budget impasses. County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Kate Stewart have expressed gratitude for the congressional support, emphasizing the crucial role federal workers, contractors, and local vendors play in the county’s economy. They plan to collaborate with federal partners to mitigate the negative effects of a shutdown, protect workers, and ensure continued access to vital assistance for families, seniors, and small businesses.

The visit occurs as a federal continuing resolution, Public Law 119-4, is set to expire at 11:59 pm on September 30th. The House of Representatives passed H.R. 5371, a clean continuing resolution intended to extend funding through November 21st. However, according to an Office of Management and Budget (OMB) memorandum, Senate Democrats are reportedly blocking its passage due to demands for significant new spending. The OMB memorandum states that President Trump supports H.R. 5371 but anticipates that Democrats will prevent its approval, forcing a government shutdown. Executive departments and agencies are being directed to implement their plans for an orderly shutdown.

The duration of any potential shutdown remains uncertain, according to the OMB. Federal employees are instructed to report for their next scheduled shift to carry out shutdown procedures. Further guidance on resuming government operations will be issued once a bill providing appropriations is signed into law. The OMB will continue to monitor developments and provide updates.

Following the congressional visit and press conference, County Executive Elrich will conduct his weekly virtual media briefing at approximately 1:30 p.m. ET, with Rep. McClain-Delaney joining him. The briefing will focus on the impending federal shutdown and its repercussions for Montgomery County residents and the state of Maryland. Additionally, discussions will cover the recent enactment of “Eric’s Law,” and media inquiries will be addressed.

The briefing will be live on Montgomery County’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Montgomery County Executive’s Office and the White House.

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