Cuts impact travel, senior services

WAVY TV

Updated: Feb 25, 2013 5:58 PM

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Sweeping cuts set to kick-in Friday will not only affect the nation's military, but will affect air travel, education, law enforcement and senior services as well.

Full Coverage: Federal Budget News

Furloughs for transportation safety workers could mean longer lines and delayed flights at Norfolk International Airport.

"We as travelers we have deadlines," Nick Bergwitz said as he was catching a flight to San Diego. "We need to get home at a certain time."

Traveler Dave Rusnak said he thinks it's too early to change plans in case the cuts do take place.

"It's too premature to change plans at this point in time and get too concerned about it. You just got to wait and see what's going to happen first," Rusnak said.

Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia serves approximately 13,000 elderly clients across Hampton Roads. The looming sequester could mean a reduction in staff and programs. 

"For our home-delivered meals we will have to cut 8,200 meals," CEO John Skirven said. "That's food for 35 [elderly people over one year]." 

Back at the Norfolk airport, passenger Jon Pace had a few words for lawmakers.

"Balance the budget, cut back on government spending. It's not impossible. It's not rocket science. Everybody has a household budget. If you're spending too much and have to borrow to succeed you cut back on your spending," Pace said.

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