Today NC Chamber President and CEO Gary J. Salamido issued the following statement regarding a federal government shutdown.

“A functioning federal government is critical to a strong, functioning economy. As the U.S. Chamber of Commerce report states, an estimated $36.2 million in payments each week — and about $156.8 million in monthly payments — to North Carolina small business contractors are at risk as the shutdown continues. For our state’s manufacturers and their supply chains, the uncertainty created by an indefinite pause has clear financial consequences — from delayed payments and investment decisions to slowed production and cash-flow strain for small suppliers. North Carolina’s business climate remains strong, and our employers are resilient. But sustained instability in federal operations undercuts that strength and confidence. Restoring reliability is essential to keeping our economy moving forward.”

The National Association of Manufacturers also called on Congress this week to end the government shutdown. The NC Chamber is the proud North Carolina affiliate of NAM.