Federal Employee Union Sues Over Shutdown

A closed sign is displayed at The National Archives entrance in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, as a partial government shutdown stretches into its third week. A high-stakes move to reopen the government will be the first big battle between Nancy Pelosi and President Donald Trump as Democrats come into control of the House. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

By Jason Devaney
NEWSMAX

The largest federal employee union is suing the government because of the partial government shutdown impacting families across America.

The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) announced its plans on Monday, saying in a press release that forcing workers to do their jobs without pay is “inhumane.”

“Our members put their lives on the line to keep our country safe,” said J. David Cox Sr., the AFGE national president. “Requiring them to work without pay is nothing short of inhumane.

“Positions that are considered ‘essential’ during a government shutdown are some of the most dangerous jobs in the federal government. They are frontline public safety positions, including many in law enforcement, among other critical roles.

“Our intent is to force the government and the administration to make all federal employees whole.”

Washington, D.C. law firm Kalijarvi, Chuzi, Newman & Fitch joined in the lawsuit.

“Approximately 420,000 federal employees are continuing to work, but don’t know when they will get their next paychecks,” said Heidi Burakiewicz, a partner at the firm. “This is not an acceptable way for any employer, let alone the U.S. government, to treat its employees.”

The shutdown began Dec. 22 after lawmakers were unable to agree on funding portions of the government. At issue is money for a border wall that President Donald Trump has promised to build. With Democrats now in control of the House, the prospects of the wall being built seem to have decreased.

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https://www.newsmax.com/newsfront/government-shutdown-trump-union/2019/01/01/id/896509/