Congress, Go Big or Go Home: Amend the Budget Act to Avert Government Shutdowns

 My latest appears in The Messenger. 

Yet another federal government shutdown is upon us. The choice should be not whether to allow a partial shutdown, but whether Congress should “go big or go home.” The real choice should be a total government shutdown or none at all.

A small group of anti-government zealots evidently want to play “chicken” with the federal budget and its credit score. Odds are, there will be a shutdown. But essential government functions — such as prisons, the military, Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid — will be funded, at least for now. Members of Congress will be paid, too, although their staff will not. Vulnerable Americans, those receiving WIC or SNAP benefits, may feel the pain immediately. Most Americans, however, will not feel the effects of a partial shutdown; the pain will not be spread evenly.

That is the problem with a partial shutdown. Many who dislike the government or specific programs will not be affected — at least not in the short term, or in ways that affect the poor. 

We need a better way.

One option is to let the government actually shut down, totally and completely. Reject the false distinction that there are “essential” and “non-essential” governmental functions. If Congress cannot come to an agreement, there is no funding and no government operations. Give the zealots what they want and let them live with the consequences of their choice. Courts, prisons and military bases would temporarily close. Seniors would not get their Social Security checks or health insurance.

It sounds cruel but maybe it would be effective. It would show the true value and importance of the government. It would demonstrate that all functions are essential. It also would force Congress — who, under this scenario, would not get paid — to confront the reality of its inaction. Right now, a partial shutdown bails out Congress; it can be irresponsible, and most of the government will continue to operate.

The problem with this option, however, is that the risks are too high: Vulnerable Americans will be hurt with a full shutdown, just as they are with a partial one.