Annapolis, MD — Governor Wes Moore announced Wednesday that Maryland is offering resources and support for federal workers and contractors affected by the ongoing federal government shutdown. The state aims to help employees cover essential expenses and access benefits during the funding lapse. Governor Moore said, “The federal government is stepping away from its basic obligations to Maryland and our people. But despite the challenge, our resolve is unwavering.” Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller highlighted that Maryland is home to over 60 federal facilities, 260,000 federal workers, and more than 200,000 contractors, all impacted by the shutdown.
Maryland officials, including U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Angela Alsobrooks, and Representatives Steny H. Hoyer, Jamie Raskin, Kweisi Mfume, Glenn Ivey, Johnny Olszewski, Sarah Elfreth, and April McClain Delaney, expressed support for federal employees and criticized the shutdown as unnecessary. State leaders including Senate President Bill Ferguson, House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, Comptroller Brooke Lierman, and Treasurer Dereck E. Davis also underscored the state’s commitment to aid affected workers.
To assist “excepted” federal employees required to work without pay, the Maryland Department of Labor will launch the Federal Shutdown Loan Program on October 6, offering a zero-interest $700 loan. Furloughed federal employees may apply for unemployment benefits through the Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees program, while laid-off workers may apply for the Federal Worker Emergency Loan Program for a similar loan. Secretary of Labor Portia Wu said, “Our public servants do critical work for our nation, and losing pay during a federal shutdown creates financial hardship. Maryland is committed to providing critical support and resources during this incredibly challenging time.”
Additional support includes job search assistance through American Job Centers, virtual workshops, career fairs, legal resources, and guidance on housing, health coverage, and food and cash assistance. More information is available at the Maryland Department of Labor website: https://www.labor.maryland.gov/federal-shutdown/ and the State of Maryland website: https://www.maryland.gov/.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore
Photo: Maryland.gov