Co-sign my letter to prevent utility shutoffs for families going without pay due to the shutdown.

Movement family,

I know that missing one paycheck can knock down a long line of dominoes — not being able to pay bills on time, having late fees pile up, even having your heat or electricity shut off.

So when I think about all the federal employees and contractors who are being forced to go without pay during the Republican government shutdown, I understand how urgently we must act to support them.

That’s why, last week, I sent a letter calling on National Grid and Eversource to immediately suspend utility shutoffs and offer a payment deferral program for households impacted by the shutdown — including federal employees, federal contractors, and the people who depend on them.

Since then, National Grid has announced a new payment plan opportunity and specific support for federal workers, contractors, and active military personnel. It’s an important resource for Massachusetts families, and those in need of assistance should call National Grid: 1-800-322-3223.

While we work to end this Trump-Republican government shutdown, I call on Eversource to follow suit and I continue to urge both utility companies to make sure the electricity and heat stay on for families across the Commonwealth.

Add your name if you agree, and co-sign my letter: if someone’s missing paychecks because of the government shutdown, they shouldn’t have their utilities disconnected.

ADD MY NAME

Right now, public servants might not be able to pay their utility bills on time through no fault of their own.

That could mean going without heat, electricity, internet access, and other essentials. A disruption in service would also disrupt learning for kids, diminish resources for elders, and endanger the health and safety of entire families.

And this is a particular concern for my district. More than 45,000 dedicated federal government workers call Massachusetts home, and they disproportionately live in the Massachusetts 7th.

They need relief.

I will keep pushing for this because tens of thousands of federal workers, federal contractors, and people who depend on them should not be punished for their commitment to serving our nation. Instead, they should be rewarded with compassion, understanding, and flexibility.

And I’m asking for you to join me in calling for this relief. Will you sign on to my letter and urge utility companies to prevent service disruptions for people who may fall behind on their bills because of this GOP shutdown?

In solidarity,

Ayanna