Washington, D.C. –Executive Director Chad Hooper of the Professional ManagersAssociation (PMA) - formed in 1981 by IRS Managers as a national membership association representing the interests of professional managers, management officials and non-bargaining unit employees in the federal government- released the following statement regarding the passage of a shot term continuing resolution to avert a government shutdown:
“We deeply appreciate that Congress acted quickly to avoid a government shutdown.Unfortunately, another short term continuing resolution (CR) provides little solace and consistency to federal agencies at a critical time for our nation.Federal employees and the American people should not be forced to pay the price for Congress’ inability to negotiate government funding,” Hooper explains.
“Under a CR, the Internal Revenue Service is still limited in its ability to train staff and prepare for the year ahead. This disruption and uncertainty is occurring as the IRS prepares for the next filing season and potentially issuing an additional round of economic impact payments to assist Americans struggling during the pandemic,” Hooper furthered. “At the same time, the IRS and all government agencies are working through a Presidential transition.Inconsistency surrounding government funding makes it incredibly difficult for agency transition teams to provide clear direction and forecasting to incoming officials.”
“Federal employees have dutifully served the American people through the coronavirus pandemic and economic crisis. To subject federal employees to the uncertainty of potential shut downs during the holidays is disrespectful and wasteful. We urge Congress to fund the government immediately for FY 2021 and reform the federal appropriations process to end the potential embarrassing and inefficient government shutdowns,” Hooper concluded.
