ICYMI: Elfreth Holds Virtual Town Hall For Marylanders Affected By The Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC - Yesterday, Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth (MD-03) held a virtual town hall to answer constituent questions regarding the government shutdown and share resources for those impacted by the shutdown.

"Many of you are tuning in tonight because we are in the midst of the first day of a government shutdown. We wanted to bring to you every resource we have available so we can answer your questions that have been coming in on the phones all day, what we're receiving online, what you're going to comment on right now, and communicate what exactly is at stake during this moment," said Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth.

More than 190,000 Marylanders - including 15,000 residing in the Third District - rely on Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits to access affordable health care. These tax credits are set to expire at the end of the year, and health insurance companies released notifications to enrollees on October 1st about the expiration. If Congress does not re-authorize the tax credits, Marylanders are projected to see a 13% increase in their premiums annually.

Earlier this week, Congresswoman Elfreth and Senator Alsobrooks (D-MD) introduced the Help Federals Employees During a Shutdown Act (Help FEDS Act)to ensure federal employees who are required to work without pay during a government shutdown are eligible to apply for unemployment insurance (UI).

Elfreth has also launched a comprehensive resource guide for Marylanders affected by the government shutdown. The resource guide provides answers to frequently asked questions, including how federal employees will be impacted, what everyday services will change, the process to end a shutdown, and more.

A recording of the full conversation can be accessed HERE.

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