News Summary
The ongoing federal government shutdown has led to an increase in unemployment claims from federal workers in Raleigh, North Carolina. Over 180 claims have been filed as employees face missed paychecks. While some are set to receive back pay due to the Fair Treatment Act, uncertainties remain regarding federal contractors who are not guaranteed similar benefits. The North Carolina government is actively recruiting and assisting affected workers in navigating their unemployment claims.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Federal Employees Seek Unemployment Benefits Amid Government Shutdown
The ongoing federal government shutdown is significantly impacting federal workers in North Carolina, leading to a notable increase in unemployment claims. As the shutdown persists, more federal employees are turning to unemployment benefits due to incomplete paychecks, with over 180 claims filed in the state since the shutdown began.
Increase in Unemployment Claims and State Response
Antwon Keith, assistant secretary of the North Carolina Department of Commerce Division of Employment Security, reported a rise in federal employees seeking unemployment assistance. Many of these workers are visiting local unemployment offices as they face missed paychecks. While over 180 federal workers in North Carolina have applied for unemployment benefits, this figure is markedly lower than during the 2018 shutdown, which saw more than 500 claims filed.
Most federal employees affected by the shutdown are still expected to receive back pay once the government reopens. The federal Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, passed in 2019, ensures that federal workers will be compensated retroactively for the unpaid days, possibly contributing to the lower number of current claims. Nonetheless, some workers are opting to retire prematurely due to the financial strain caused by the shutdown.
Uncertainty Over Back Pay and Impact on Federal Contractors
The White House has indicated ongoing uncertainties regarding whether all federal employees will receive back pay, particularly for those in specific positions. Additionally, federal contractors, who are not covered by the Fair Treatment Act, do not have guaranteed back pay and are not eligible for unemployment benefits in the same manner as federal employees. This situation leaves many contractors in a challenging position, potentially facing financial hardship without a government safety net.
It is important to note that if federal employees collect unemployment benefits during the shutdown and later receive back pay, they are required to repay the unemployment benefits. This policy aims to prevent double compensation for the same period of time.
Application Process and Local Employment Efforts
Federal employees seeking unemployment benefits are encouraged to apply promptly by creating a MyNCUIBenefits account on the North Carolina Department of Commerce Division of Employment Security website. Eligibility for benefits requires being employed by the federal government and being involuntarily unemployed due to the shutdown. Employees who lose their positions because grants or contracts end can apply for regular unemployment compensation online.
The state government of North Carolina is actively recruiting to fill vacant positions and seeks to hire former federal employees, especially given the current 20% vacancy rate across state jobs. The Department of Commerce Division of Employment Security offers assistance to federal workers navigating the unemployment claims process, ensuring they understand eligibility criteria and how to expedite their applications.
Case Study and Broader Context
In one instance, a woman from Zebulon, North Carolina, Deanna Faison, faced delays and complications when applying for unemployment benefits due to miscommunications involving the state’s process. After intervention, she successfully received her benefits. Her experience underscores the importance of early and clear communication during the claims process.
Nationwide, the impact of the shutdown has also been reflected in other states. For example, in Washington state, a similar rise in unemployment claims from federal employees has been reported following recent layoffs caused by federal budget cuts. These patterns highlight the widespread effect of government shutdowns on federal workers and contractors across the country.
Summary
The North Carolina federal workforce continues to face financial uncertainty due to the shutdown. While some benefit from the Fair Treatment Act guarantees, others struggle to access timely aid. The state remains committed to assisting affected workers, actively recruiting for vacant positions, and providing guidance through the unemployment benefits process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many federal employees in North Carolina have filed unemployment claims since the shutdown?
Over a week after the shutdown began, more than 180 federal employees in North Carolina have applied for unemployment benefits.
How does the number of claims now compare to the 2018 shutdown?
The number of claims this time is significantly lower than during the 2018 shutdown, which saw over 500 claims filed.
What law guarantees back pay to federal employees?
The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act, passed in 2019, guarantees back pay to federal employees.
Are federal contractors eligible for unemployment benefits?
Federal contractors are not covered by the Fair Treatment Act and do not have a guarantee of back pay or unemployment benefits.
If federal employees receive unemployment benefits and later get back pay, what must they do?
If employees receive unemployment benefits and then obtain back pay, they are required to repay the unemployment benefits.
How can federal employees apply for unemployment benefits in North Carolina?
Federal employees must create a MyNCUIBenefits account via the North Carolina Department of Commerce Division of Employment Security website.
What is the eligibility criterion for unemployment benefits for federal employees?
Employees must be employed by the federal government and involuntarily unemployed to qualify.
What is North Carolina doing to address employment gaps caused by the shutdown?
The North Carolina state government is actively recruiting, seeking to hire former federal employees amid a 20% vacancy rate in state jobs.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News: North Carolina Shutdown Unemployment Claims
- News Observer: Politics and Government
- ABC11: Troubleshooter Resolves Issue with Unemployment Benefits
- Washington Post: DMV Economy and Federal Spending Cuts
- Wikipedia: Unemployment Benefits
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
