9-28-23
Read Gov. Relations Consultant AJ Donelson’s update below.
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At the time of this Member Update, Congress is facing a deadline of October 1 to fund the government for the next fiscal year. Current spending for this fiscal year expires at the end of the week. Without a short-term extension (a continuing resolution) or approval of individual appropriations measures, the government will shut down as of 12:01 AM Sunday.
Many, if not most, economists agree that a government shut down poses a serious threat to the U.S. economy, with GDP growth taking a significant hit from reduced federal spending and the resulting impact on the private sector.
Whenever Congress is up against a deadline to approve “must pass” legislation, there are always efforts to attach controversial amendments, which don’t have the votes to pass on their own, but they might survive as last-minute amendments to legislation like government funding. That is certainly the case here.
Regarding possible amendments which impact Texas injury benefit plans, ARAWC is focused on measures like the elimination of mandatory arbitration and restrictions on the use of confidentiality agreements. In addition, ARAWC continues to monitor Department of Labor developments which impact the ability of employers to create injury benefit plans.
Congress’ ability (or inability) over the next week to fund the government, with or without amendments that directly impact injury benefit plans, is a significant uncertainty and potential risk for not only ARAWC members, but employers generally. Stay tuned.