America's Work Force Union Podcast

Potential federal default could have domino effect on local government

Written by awfblog | May 17, 2023

Laurie Glicker, Executive Vice President of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 3283 joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the what the impact could be if the federal government does not increase the national debt ceiling. She also talked about the implementation of artificial intelligence and some of the perceived threats government employees could face.

AFGE Local 3283 represents the Defense, Finance and Account Services members in the Cleveland area. There are 700 active members in the Local.

During her time on the podcast, Glicker discussed the upcoming deadline for the federal government to agree to raise the debt ceiling. If they do not agree by the June 1 deadline, Glicker shared some of the different consequences. Mortgage rates and insurance costs would increase as salaries stay the same, she said. Social Security field offices would close, causing disability decisions to be further delayed and the Transportation Security Administration would have to furlough employees creating longer lines during summer travel and beyond.

The conversation switched to recent discussions surrounding the implementation of artificial intelligence and the possibilities and potential risks involved. Glicker fears that many workers could one day be replaced by AI technology. She outlined more of the perceived threats in greater detail and why the use of artificial intelligence may be a risky proposition.

Listen to the entire episode to learn more.