While I’m relieved that Congress came together on a short-term deal to fund the government, as a small-business owner, I am also beyond frustrated with the irresponsible way in which some of our elected officials are repeatedly threatening the stability of our economy with one looming shutdown threat after another.

Here in Colorado Springs, where I operate, we have many military installations including an Army base, an Air Force base, Space Command, and the Air Force Academy. Many of our customers depend on their employer —the U.S. government — to pay them to do their jobs so they can care for their families.

We have noticed a slowdown in sales since the last shutdown threat made the headlines. Now as we face what should be our most profitable two months of the year, some members of the House of Representatives were ready to tell the American people that they aren’t necessarily committed to paying their bills.

This posturing imperils our economy for no good reason. While a major crisis was averted, hard-working Americans and small businesses have suffered losses. It is absolutely imperative that Congress pass a reasonable long-term budget that will protect Main Street small businesses and our economy.

Tracy duCharme Colorado Springs