Government Shutdown Resources
As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1, funding for many federal government operations has expired. I supported a package passed by the House that would extend current funding until November 21, 2025, but the proposal did not pass the Senate.
Despite the shutdown, my office remains open and my team and I are here to help residents of California’s 3rd District. While some federal agencies may have slower response times, we can still submit requests and advocate on your behalf. You can submit casework requests on our website here.
I am also committed to keeping you informed about how the shutdown may or may not affect you. Many essential services, like Social Security payments, will still be provided as Congress works toward a solution. Beyond mandatory programs like Social Security and Medicare, the effects of a shutdown vary depending on which federal agency you’re working with. You can get the latest updates by visiting the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website.
How did we get here?
The U.S. Congress must pass annual appropriations measures in order to fund federal government agencies by October 1. On September 19, I supported a measure that passed the House of Representatives extending current federal funding until November 21 while we finish our work for the full fiscal year. This was a clean, straightforward extension of existing funding without extraneous policy.
Unfortunately, despite bipartisan support in the Senate, the bill failed to secure the 60 votes necessary to pass in the Senate. This means that many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Other programs deemed essential are allowed by law to continue.
What kinds of services will continue?
The programs listed below will continue. This is not a comprehensive list as we are continuing to gather information.
- Social Security payments, including SSI benefits
- Medicare and Medicaid benefits
- VA medical care and benefits (although some regional offices may be closed)
- SNAP benefits (although a prolonged shutdown could create disruptions)
- Disability payments
- Mail delivery
- Federal law enforcement and military operations
- Air travel
- Federal employee retirement payments
- Student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans
- Visits to national Smithsonian Museums (until at least Monday, October 6)
- Visa and passport services (although longer wait times are possible)
Smithsonian Museums are remaining open as well for the time being. However it is worth checking with the museum ahead of time. You can find their contact page here.
Resources for Federal Employees
As agencies shut down, federal employees will either be furloughed, or in some cases required to work without pay. Under federal law, employees are entitled to back pay upon the government reopening.
For agency-specific details, visit your department’s website (e.g., www.dhs.gov, www.va.gov) and check their HR or shutdown resource pages.