OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City, released the following statement after the federal government was shut down because of congressional disagreements on funding.

“Oklahomans are paying the cost of Congress refusing to work together,” said Leader Munson. “Many agencies are preparing for mass firings, employees must continue their work without pay, and many are being furloughed. We must remember that these disagreements directly affect people–our family members and neighbors. This shutdown will not only cost taxpayers but cost the livelihoods of thousands of federal employees as well as those who rely on federal services. The truth is this: Republicans control the White House, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House–it is their job to govern, which includes reaching across the aisle to create a budget that works for everyone. In a time of immense dysfunction in Washington, I am disappointed in our federal delegation for not finding a way to collaborate with their colleagues across the aisle to ensure Oklahomans do not lose their jobs or services. While this shutdown gets addressed in an indefinite amount of time, I encourage Oklahomans to continue to be there for one another and take the proper steps they need to prevent their lives from being further derailed by an administration that does not appear to put people’s lives above political disagreements.”

According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission (OESC), federal employees in Oklahoma can apply for unemployment benefits. OESC noted that when back pay is issued, Oklahomans will be required to return those benefits in full. 

OESC also noted that if you are a federal employee or member of the military and continue to work 32 or more hours per week during the shutdown, even if you’re not being paid, you do not qualify for benefits due to federal law. Only those who are furloughed may qualify.

You can reach the OESC call center at 405-525-1500 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

You can also visit any of OESC’s 27 Oklahoma Works American Job Centers from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A list of all OESC locations can be found here.

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