The partial government shutdown is a matter of life and death, according to federal prison workers who walked to the halls of Congress Wednesday to confront politicians.
One federal prison worker confronted Barbara Boxer, the junior Senator from California. The prison worker approached Boxer in the hall and discussed issues about workplace safety and resources.
"Don't ask me," Boxer replied. "I voted to open the government. Take your case to Boehner. He's the one man who can solve this now."
The partisanship gridlock is raising the frustration level of federal prison workers according to Joe Rojas who was among those at the Capitol building Wednesday.
"While they're playing politics, we're on the front line dealing with convicted felons, killers," Rojas said.
Rojas says the budget impasse put an end to overtime at federal prisons. He teaches federal prisoners in Florida and says a lack of overtime pay could mean fewer guards ... and more riots.
"These guys are violent. They get mad at every little issue," Rojas said. "With this stuff going on right now, the staff are on the front lines."
Rojas walked the halls of Congress to meet with senators and representatives to convince them the budget logjam is a matter of life and death for federal prison workers.
"I feel Congress, both parties, are playing Russian roulette with our lives," Rojas said.
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