1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

I am writing as a concerned federal employee residing in Denver, deeply troubled by the recent passage of the Continuing Resolution in the House of Representatives. A shutdown is bad, but this bill is worse. This CR not only perpetuates funding uncertainties but also grants expanded discretionary powers to the White House and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), exacerbating challenges within the federal workforce. In Colorado, the reduction of the federal workforce poses significant economic challenges. Federal employees contribute to the stability and growth of our local economies, and their layoffs can have a ripple effect on community well-being. As you are well aware, Colorado relies heavily on the work of federal employees and federal operations. Agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and various research labs contribute significantly to the state’s economy, natural resource management, scientific research, and public health. The destabilization of federal agencies directly threatens jobs, funding for crucial projects, and the wellbeing of our state’s natural resources and public lands. A shutdown is bad, but this bill is worse. The bill (H.R. 1968) even includes language allowing the White House to dictate federal operations in the event of a sequestration: "If a sequestration is ordered by the President under section 254 of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, the spending, expenditure, or operating plan required by this section shall reflect such sequestration." This gives the Executive Branch even more sweeping control, undermining congressional oversight and potentially destabilizing essential services. Given these circumstances, I urge you to oppose the current CR in the Senate, even if it results in a government shutdown. It is imperative to negotiate a budget that ensures stable funding, protects federal employees, and maintains the integrity of our democratic institutions. Please note, these views are my own and do not represent those of my federal agency. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter.