Rep. Waxman Statement on Federal Government Shutdown

“Extremist Republicans in the House of Representatives have forced a government shutdown because they refuse to accept that the Affordable Care Act is the law of the land.  The House passed it, the Senate passed it, the President signed it, and the Supreme Court upheld it.  These extremists just can’t get over it. 

“A shutdown is going to hurt people across the country.  Disabled veterans won’t get their benefits claims processed on time, small businesses won’t be able to get loans, and important government research will stop.  Already, national parks and monuments, including the Santa Monica National Recreation Area in my district, are closing and workers are being furloughed.

“Republicans are having a temper tantrum and they’re willing to hurt lots of innocent bystanders and threaten the economy if they don’t get their way.”