NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – With the possibility of the U.S. government shutting down in a few hours, New Mexico lawmakers are concerned this could hurt residents greatly. A bill passed through the House just a little bit ago to avert a shutdown, but it still must clear the Senate.
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Lawmakers said one big concern is the disaster relief at stake for those affected by the Roswell floods and Ruidoso fires. Also, water access through the farm bill. “Now we’ve suffered from some of the most catastrophic wildfires, drought that we have seen in our state’s history, over the last four to five years, that’s impacted farmers, ranchers, but also families who depend on their products,” said Representative Gabe Vasquez (D).
Representative Vasquez also said a third of his district relies on government funding, including salaries for federal employees and service members. A government shutdown would mean federal employees would be furloughed or forced to work without pay. TSA for instance, said an extended shutdown could mean longer wait times in the coming busy holiday. New Mexicans who receive SNAP and WIC benefits could lose access to those during a shutdown as well…