Summary
The Office of Management and Budget has told federal agencies to prepare for layoffs if the government shuts down, as there are disagreements between Republicans and Democrats over funding. The memo gives agencies the option to use a method for permanent job cuts, not just temporary ones. The government will run out of money if Congress and the president cannot agree on a short-term funding plan by September 30.
Key Facts
- The Office of Management and Budget sent a memo to federal agencies about possible mass layoffs.
- Agencies can use a method called "reduction-in-force" to permanently cut jobs.
- The memo states that programs without extra funding will be most affected by a shutdown.
- The government needs a funding agreement by September 30 to avoid a shutdown.
- Disagreements exist between Republicans and Democrats over funding for health programs and other spending.
- President Trump canceled a meeting with Democratic leaders, calling their demands unreasonable.
- The memo blames Democrats for potentially causing a shutdown by demanding $1 trillion in new spending.
