9/27/07: On September 30, 2007, the federal government’s fiscal year ends. Since 1995 when, under then House Speaker Newt Gingrich, Congress failed to pass measures funding the government and many agencies shut down, NTEU members have been anxious as to the possibility of another shut down.

The House of Representatives has passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) to extend agency funding until November 16, 2007. NTEU expects the Senate will take this CR up later this week. If the President signs the CR into law before the end of the month, there will be no government shutdown before November 16th. NTEU's Legislation Department is paying careful attention to this matter, and we will keep you informed of any new developments. However, it is expected the CR will be enacted.

The CR funds agencies at the FY 2007 levels. This means that agency budgets may be tight and management may restrict travel and other expenditures. It is possible that during the month of October, final action will be taken on some of the appropriations bills. If so, these agencies will have their funding for FY 2008.

Check www.secunion.org regularly for updates on this issue.