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Congressman Josh Riley, representing New York's 19th Congressional District, has requested Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation to refrain from issuing service termination notices to federal workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown. Approximately 4,000 federal employees in the district are currently impacted by the shutdown, which has left them without pay. Riley emphasized that if companies can afford executive bonuses and extensive lobbying efforts, they should extend leniency to working families facing financial difficulties.
Riley has also urged Central Hudson and other utilities, including NYSEG and National Grid, to waive late fees and refrain from sending accounts to collection agencies during the shutdown. According to a report from the Daily Freeman, Central Hudson's spokesperson, Joseph Jenkins, stated that the company is considering assistance programs for federal workers and plans to respond to Riley's request by Monday (October 27).
The federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, has led to furloughs and unpaid work for many federal employees. Riley's office has provided resources and assistance for those affected, encouraging constituents to reach out for support. The shutdown has caused disruptions across various government services, but essential services like Social Security and Veterans Health Administration continue to operate. However, other services, such as new housing loan approvals and small business loans, have been halted.
Riley's call for action reflects a broader concern about the impact of the shutdown on local families and the need for companies to support their communities during challenging times.