Federal workers, agencies preparing for cuts

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- More than 2 million people nationwide could lose their jobs if automatic spending cuts go into effect.

A study from George Mason University is showing unemployment could go up by 1.5%.

Others are more conservative and estimate a .25% increase in unemployment.

These job losses and possible impact on the economy aren't enough for Republicans and Democrats to come together right now.

Over the next decade, House Republicans want $115 billion in cuts.

Senate Democrats want $110 billion in cuts and tax increases.

Senate and House Democrats would allow the cuts to kick in at the beginning of next year.

Maryland Congressman Chris Van Hollen is a member of the Budget Committee. He told Action News, "You may not like what we've proposed but at least let us have a vote in the House of Representatives. Come back here, call the Congress into session in the next eight days and let's have a vote."

Some lawmakers are in Washington, but Congress is on break until Monday.

This gives them four days to reach a deal to avoid these sweeping automatic cuts.