Pennsylvania has the distinction of being the only state in the union without a budget. While state legislators still collect their salaries, counties and school districts are beginning to feel the crunch. As if that were not bad enough, the federal government has shut down as of midnight today.
Republicans blame Democrats. Democrats blame Republicans. While it's certain that both parties are to blame, this finger-pointing does nothing to answer the question how or whether vital human services should continue, and for how long.
As I've already told you, NorCo Exec Lamont McClure will furlough human services workers as an "option of last resort." This is really an option of first resort because he refuses to borrow or spend down the rainy-day fund. Given the large number of elected officials who disagree with him, he will hopefully relent.
Lehigh County will borrow.
According to Capital Star, Westmoreland County has also announced furloughs. Northampton and Chester have stopped paying vendors. Other counties have dipped into savings, but that is unsustainable long-term.
Given this gridlock, it is little wonder that 8 of 10 Americans believe the US is in a political crisis. According to a poll by Quinnipiac U, 53% of Americans believe democracy is no longer working (74% among Dems, but only 22% among Republicans).
