ST. PAUL — On the heels of the Trump administration laying off federal workers during the government shutdown, some state workers in Minnesota watch with worry.
The budget stalemate in Washington is trickling down to the state level in situations where a state office gets federal funding to carry out a certain function, including workers who look over applications for disability claims covered by Social Security.
Lisa Becker, disability specialist for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, pointed out a temporary layoff for her would be devastating to the clients she assists.
"How long is that going to delay decisions for people who need answers for their physical and mental health care needs?" Becker asked.
Becker, a member of the Minnesota Association of Professional Employees, stressed not getting timely decisions on a medical claim means someone could be at risk of going without basic needs like food and shelter. She noted even if she were laid off for a day or two, pending benefit claims would likely be pushed back longer due to scheduling conflicts for doctors' exams.
State officials said available federal funds will prevent staffing disruptions for the service until Oct. 27.
Melissa Green, also a disability specialist for the department and union member, echoed concerns about vulnerable applicants facing delays with their claims. She added there are government workers like her trying to support their family while dealing with household budget pressures. Green added her young daughter has special needs and the situation is likely to become harder to manage in the event of a layoff.
"I don't know how we would afford to keep her in treatment to continue the process of getting her evaluated and getting her the care that she needs," Green emphasized.
The union warned other state employees in federally funded positions could soon be in the same dilemma. Earlier this month, state officials said they had done some planning to make this situation less taxing on agencies but they also cautioned a prolonged shutdown would start to inflict harm on services and programs.
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