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Post-presidential debate poll shows a shift in WI; Teamsters won't endorse in presidential race after releasing internal polling showing most members support Trump; IL energy jobs growth is strong but lacks female workers; Pregnant, Black Coloradans twice as likely to die than the overall population.

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The Teamsters choose not to endorse a presidential candidate, county officials in Texas fight back against state moves to limit voter registration efforts, and the FBI investigate suspicious packages sent to elections offices in at least 17 states.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

As Shutdown Drags On, Credit Unions Offer Federal Employees Help

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Friday, January 11, 2019   

SEATTLE – For federal employees, a dreaded a day in the government shutdown is upon them. Today is the first time in the shutdown that they won't receive a paycheck.

One place federal workers in the Northwest might look to as they juggle their budgets is their local credit union, as many are offering a few ways to help folks get through difficult times.

Lynn Heider, vice president of communications and public relations with the Northwest Credit Union Association, says credit unions can offer short-term, low-interest emergency loans as well as other options.

"Financial counseling, the opportunity to sit down with someone at the credit union and review your budget and see where you have options to save money,” says Heider. “And also, in many cases, an option to delay a loan payment – even on your mortgage or your car payment – and resume payments when the shutdown ends."

The shutdown has affected 11,600 employees in the Evergreen State, according to the Washington Post. Nationwide, 380,000 federal employees have been furloughed and aren't working. Another 420,000 essential personnel, such as airport security workers, are on the job without pay.

Heider notes credit unions' not-for-profit, cooperative model lets them reinvest in members, which means they can offer lower interest rates and other services that can be especially important in tough times. But she points out that credit unions may not know which of their members are federal employees.

"So if you are, you should contact your credit union and let them know and then, find out what your options are,” says Heider. “And even if you're not a credit union member, reach out locally, see if you can join, and see what services might be available to help you through this difficult time."

The partial shutdown began on December 22 and negotiations to end it have reached a stalemate so far over funding for a U.S.-Mexico border wall.


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