East Point councilman proposes moratorium to protect residents still waiting for relief as shutdown ends

EAST POINT, Ga. — As the federal government is set to reopen, uncertainty remains for millions of families still waiting for back pay and missed benefits.

After the longest shutdown in U.S. history came to an end Wednesday night, federal employees and those who rely on SNAP benefits have yet to learn when they’ll see their next payment.

That delay has one city leader in East Point taking local action. Councilman Joshua Butler IV said he plans to introduce a moratorium on evictions and utility shutoffs at Monday’s city council meeting to help residents stay afloat while they wait for relief.

“Because what is happening with the federal government shutdown and SNAP benefits are hurting people and we want to try and address those issues,” Butler said.

He said East Point has a high percen