Members of the Domestic Human Needs coalition (DHN) met with staff from Alaskan Senator Lisa Murkowski's office this week to discuss the government shutdown and how current legislation and proposals, including the shutdown and expiration of ACA enhanced premium tax credits, are affecting those who are on Medicaid and utilize Head Start services.
Picture: DHN members, including the Salvation Amy, the Episcopal Church, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, and more, meet with staff from Sen. Lisa Murkowski's office (R-AK).
The same week, members from the subcommittee also met with staff from South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds' office. Discussions were had over how the government shutdown is impacting those who utilize key services such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid.
Picture: DHN members, including the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL), the Salvation Army, and more, meet with staff from Sen. Mike Rounds' office (R-SD).
The government shutdown, the expiration of ACA tax credits, and the lack of fiscal funds for FY26 mean that essential services are not being provided and average costs for consumers will rise. People are not receiving the food benefits they rely on due to SNAP funding not being administered; Head Start, which depends on government funding for early education, is not receiving the funds needed to operate; and millions have seen their health insurance costs skyrocket as open enrollment begins.
DHN is committed to advocating for those who rely on these programs for everyday necessities and continues to work with Congress to protect and strengthen those programs.