Furloughed federal workers begin filing for unemployment checks in DC, Maryland, Virginia

By Associated Press, Published: October 2

WASHINGTON — Federal workers who are furloughed because of the government shutdown began filing for unemployment benefits almost immediately this week, uncertain about when they would be able to return to work.

Employment agencies in the District of Columbia and Maryland said Wednesday that they have already seen an increase in online applications for benefits. Virginia is requiring federal workers to fill out a special paper application to mail to Richmond.

Workers must be out of work for at least a week before they are eligible to receive benefits in D.C. and Virginia. There is no waiting period to receive benefits in Maryland. Continue reading “Furloughed federal workers begin filing for unemployment checks in DC, Maryland, Virginia”

As shutdown looms, federal employees in Chicago protest

By David Roeder Staff Reporter September 30, 2013 4:57PM

Updated: October 1, 2013 2:24AM

Unionized federal workers bracing for a government shutdown angrily called on Congress to end its budgetary stalemate Monday, saying furloughs would hurt the economy and the delivery of important services.

Members of the American Federation of Government Employees staged a lunch-hour rally at Federal Plaza, 230 S. Dearborn.

“We have dedicated public servants here. They’re basically being used as guinea pigs,” said Mike Mikulka, an environmental engineer and a vice president of the union. “Lawmakers had all summer to do their job and fund the government.” Continue reading “As shutdown looms, federal employees in Chicago protest”