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How the Government Shutdown Affects You

Dear Friend,

Yesterday, the federal government shut down for the first time in 17 years. Why? Extreme tea party conservatives have refused to keep it running unless Congress repeals the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.

This is a dangerous game to play with the lives of ordinary Americans. I am outraged that tea party conservatives are willing to hold our federal government hostage and threaten our country's fragile economic recovery if they do not get their way.

What does a government shutdown mean for East Bay residents?

  • Millions of federal employees are furloughed or forced to work without pay.
  • Veterans' benefits are jeopardized, but VA hospitals remain open.
  • FHA home loans are delayed.
  • New clinical trials are halted.
  • All national parks and museum are closed.
    **Social Security, Medicare and unemployment benefits will not be interrupted.

I have committed to not accepting my paycheckuntil federal employees working during the shutdown receive theirs.

Despite 44 attempts by tea party conservatives to derail the Affordable Care Act, the health care law has expanded health benefits like preventive care to millions more Americans and put in place reforms to protect patients from insurance company abuses. Californians can now shop for affordable, quality health coverage that meets their needs and budget at CoveredCA.com.

The most important voice here is yours. Please take a moment to fill out the survey below.

It is an honor to serve you. Even during the shutdown my office will remain open. Contact my office if there is anything we can do for you.

To keep updated on shutdown developments, connect with me on Twitter @RepSwalwell and Facebook. If you haven't done so already, sign up to continue receiving my e-newsletter.

Sincerely,

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Eric Swalwell
Member of Congress