Bipartisan Leaders Urge Senate to Prevent Government Shutdown Threatening Veterans, Parks, Safety

As the September 30 government funding deadline approaches, bipartisan leaders and state officials are urging Congress to pass a clean short-term funding extension to prevent a government shutdown. Utah officials and Republican lawmakers emphasize the severe consequences a shutdown would have on federal workers, veterans, seniors, first responders, and critical services nationwide. Governors from multiple states, including South Dakota's Larry Rhoden, joined calls for the Senate to approve the stopgap measure that has already passed the House with bipartisan support. Veteran groups, such as the American Legion and AMVETS, stress the importance of continuing vital programs for veterans' healthcare, housing, and benefits embedded in the GOP-led continuing resolution. President Trump and allied organizations advocate for keeping government operations funded to maintain economic progress and national security. However, Senate Democratic leaders remain opposed to the House-passed measure, complicating efforts to avoid the shutdown.