BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Thursday he is directing state agencies to help furloughed workers impacted by the partial government shutdown.
The Department of Labor has been ordered to provide increased support to workers who are looking for unemployment insurance benefits. Also, the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance will be helping those working without pay apply for public assistance benefits.
"It is unconscionable that the President is holding hostage the wages and livelihoods of hard-working Americans in an attempt to advance his hateful and regressive political agenda," Governor Cuomo said. "While the federal administration steps on the backs of workers, New York State is stepping up to help in any way we can. These measures will ensure furloughed federal workers in New York receive prompt and special one-on-one services so they can obtain the vital safety-net benefits they need during this hard time."
Some furloughed federal workers who are not getting paid may also be eligible for emergency assistance to help meet basic needs through the state's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Anyone interested in learning more about programs they may be eligible for can visit this link.
