Checks To Go Out

Seeking to soften the impact of the partial government shutdown, Congress enacted and President Clinton signed into law Friday a measure to pay veterans’ benefits and distribute welfare checks.

While veterans will get their benefits, they will be late. Veterans who were expecting payments on Dec. 29, will receive their checks either Dec. 30 or Jan. 2.

Lawmakers also acted to ensure that 4.7 million needy families who depend on the Aid to Families with Dependent Children program will get their payment this month.

Veterans’ advocates were outraged by the delay.

“America’s veterans have already fought their battles. They don’t need to be dragged into conflicts between Congress and the administration,” said Phil Budahn, spokesman for the American Legion.