PRINCE GEORGE’S CO., Md. –
Should laid-off federal employees receive $1,000 checks? Two councilmembers from Prince George’s County are advocating for this financial assistance for federal workers in their community who lost their jobs due to the extensive layoffs during the Trump administration.
While proponents argue that this support would be beneficial during difficult times, significant concerns regarding equity and the financial viability for the county government have been raised.
The Proposal
What we know:
Councilmember Wala Blegay mentioned to FOX 5 that there are approximately 70,000 federal employees residing in Prince George’s County. She aims to assist these individuals with a one-time $1,000 payment if they were impacted by the White House’s federal workforce reduction.
The proposed legislation is titled “Federal Worker Emergency Assistance Act.” If enacted, the plan would distribute $1,000 checks to those laid off. Employees who opted for voluntary buyouts would not qualify for this assistance.
The bill’s sponsors are looking to secure $1 to $2 million initially; however, Prince George’s County is confronting a budget shortfall, which raises concerns regarding the feasibility of the initiative. Maryland continues to navigate a budget deficit.
“I think affording this will be challenging, especially during budget season, but we’re aiming to allocate a million or two to get a start, and it would be modest at first,” Blegay stated.
The Impact
What they’re saying:
The exact number of federal employees in Prince George’s County who have lost their positions is unclear, but officials caution that the economic repercussions of these layoffs will adversely affect the county. Supporters assert that the $1,000 would assist with housing, food, and other essential expenses.
Some residents have expressed concerns about fairness, questioning the decision to provide funding solely to laid-off federal employees while those in the private sector remain ineligible for the $1,000 assistance.
“I must say, I’m not in favor of all this laying off, but I suppose it wouldn’t be fair since others are suffering too,” commented one Maryland resident to FOX 5.
“I’m kind of on the fence about it. They will receive unemployment benefits,” another resident shared.
The bill was introduced and unanimously voted on by the Prince George’s County Council; however, this initial approval may be the least challenging hurdle it will encounter. Public hearings regarding the legislation are anticipated later this spring.
