It has been tough reading libertarians gloating how the government shutdown is showcasing how many unnecessary jobs there are. What makes them think that they are an authority on which jobs are worthy of existing? Do they only care when a government service affects them?
For those who actually care how a continuing government shutdown affects individual Iowans:
Checks for current Social Security recipients will continue, but new beneficiaries may be prevented from receiving payments. In 2011, Iowa had 34,424 new Social Security beneficiaries. New applicants who apply on-line still need to have government employees approve and process claims.
Find out what's happening in Waukeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The Iowa National Guard currently has 140 members on active duty — 100 in Afghanistan and 40 in Honduras. These members will be paid for their service during the shutdown, but their pay could be delayed just like for other active-duty troops. The Guard may also have to cancel training and other duties, which could affect at least 7,500 soldiers and airmen.
Veterans Administration compensation and pension benefits will continue, as will housing and burial services. But there may be a delay in processing new benefits claims.
Find out what's happening in Waukeefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Weekly, the Iowa offices of the Small Business Administration process 30 to 40 small-business and economic development loans. Dozens of Iowa small businesses may quickly lose access to federal loans.
The Federal Housing Administration may be unable to insure new home loans. In the first eight months of fiscal year 2013, the FHA guaranteed 7,085 new home loans in Iowa.
The most immediate impact will be the shutdown of the programs that promote the sale of U.S. agricultural products overseas. That will have a direct effect on our economy here in Iowa. Even some of President Obama's Asian trips promoting trade have been canceled.
Don't we just love idealogues who just hate health care for everyone?