Congressman Onder's office briefs Cole County on shutdown effects; staffer says some federal pay and program measures are being pursued

Sarah Williams, a staff member from Congressman Mark Onder's office, briefed the Cole County Commission on impacts of the federal government shutdown and said the office was gathering county concerns to follow up with Congress.

Williams said the county's delegation is monitoring the shutdown, which she described as entering its third week, and that Congressman Onder and others had supported a continuing resolution (CR) on Sept. 19. She said some members of Congress claim the CR would redirect funds to immigration-related spending and that proponents say the CR could affect programs including the Children's Health Insurance Program and rural health investments; Williams said she was present primarily to hear county concerns and answer inquiries.

During public remarks commissioners asked whether any pay measures for active-duty military were expected. Williams said she had seen press reports that some appropriated funds may be used to provide pay to active-duty service members and that she would follow up with verification. She also said there were efforts to continue or extend WIC benefits and that Congressman Onder and staff are tracking multiple items that could affect county residents and federal workers.

Williams encouraged elected officials and department heads in Cole County who are experiencing problems related to the shutdown to contact Congressman Onder's office. She said staff in the local office could assist with casework and follow-up on inquiries.

The presentation was informational; no formal action was taken by the commission.