Fiscal Cliff's Big Brother: The Sequester
By: Channing Barker
Updated: February 27, 2013
The sequester could take a big toll on families right here in Northwest Arkansas.
University of Arkansas economist Kathy Deck said there are a few big ways you could directly feel the sequester.
The first? Jobs.
"We have been seeing our unemployment rate across the nation and in Arkansas improve bit by bit since the recession. We're going to see people put out of work. We're going to see people furloughed," said Deck.
With paychecks thinning, less green is going back into businesses here in NWA.
"Whenever we see people unemployed or people with their incomes cut, it affects the amount of sales that small businesses have in the community," said Deck.
Cuts don't stop there. They could come into the classroom if lawmakers can't compromise.
"When you talk about a million dollars there so whether you're talking about headstart or talking about aid to teachers, those are dollars that are not coming into the states," said Deck.
All these cut backs, couldn't come at a worse time for an economy trying to make a comeback. To prevent the fallout, Congress needs to figure something out by Friday.
To see a list on how Arkansas could directly see the effect of the sequester, click here.
