Evers suspends rules for emergency assistance program as shutdown nears end

MADISON, Wis. -- Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers on Wednesday suspended rules affecting the state's program that gives emergency assistance to those facing housing insecurity or an energy crisis.

The move comes just as the federal government appears to be on the verge of reopening. Evers said suspending the rules will allow eligible Wisconsinites to apply for assistance throughout November, regardless of when the government shutdown ends.

"Missed paychecks, empty cupboards, overdraft fees, and late payment penalties—these are the very real consequences of the chaos and dysfunction in Washington," Evers said. "Anything we can do as a state to help families get through these tumultuous times is something we should do."

The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families' Emergency Assistance prog