Massachusetts

Gov. Baker Readying Proposal to Help Federal Workers

Gov. Charlie Baker is preparing to present lawmakers with ideas about how Massachusetts could help federal workers who are furloughed or working without pay because of the partial federal government shutdown.

The Republican said Thursday his administration is looking for ways the state's unemployment insurance system could be tapped to help workers. He said many are struggling to pay rent or mortgages or meet other daily costs of living.

There are about 47,000 federal employees living in Massachusetts.

Baker said he hopes to offer suggestions to lawmakers as early as next week.

Democratic House Speaker Robert DeLeo said Thursday the Legislature is also looking for ways to help federal workers in Massachusetts.

On Thursday, Democratic Senate President Karen Spilka announced an eight-member working group to develop ways to help workers.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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