At midnight on September 30^th, funding for the federal government is set to expire. Every year, Congress must pass 12 appropriations bills – one of our most important jobs. These appropriations bills provide funding for various government agencies and programs. Unfortunately, Congress has not passed all 12 appropriations bills on time through regular order since 1997.  If Congress does not pass appropriations bills before the end of the fiscal year, we can pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government open and give more time to find agreement between the House, Senate, and the White House on funding levels.

As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’ve been working with my colleagues to write fiscally responsible, single-subject spending bills since early spring. Unfortunately, there are a small handful of my colleagues who have held up consideration of these appropriations bills. They have also refused to pass a CR that would both keep our government open, provide for our military, reduce wasteful spending, and secure the border.

Government shutdowns are counterproductive, and not something I support.  

In a divided government, the only way to get anything done is to compromise. Congress’ most pressing job over the coming days is to work towards a funding agreement that the Republican-controlled House, the Democrat-controlled Senate, and President Biden can all agree on. I understand that many people find this situation frustrating – I do too. I’m fully committed to working with my colleagues to find a resolution as quickly as possible and keep the federal government open.

Many people have reached out to my office asking how a government shutdown could impact them directly. Click here for answers to some of the questions my office has received over the last few weeks.

I recently contacted your office and opened a case with a federal agency. What should I expect?

•  Our office will be open during regular business hours during the shutdown, and our casework team will be available to answer questions about your case.
• However, some agencies will not be able to process cases or communicate with congressional offices during a shutdown. Expect delays when dealing with any government agency during this time.  

Will I still receive my Social Security checks and Medicare benefits during a shutdown?

•  Yes, Social Security checks and Medicare benefits will still go out during a shutdown. 
• Some processes like benefit verification or replacement of Medicare cards could be delayed. 

I’m a veteran – how will this impact veterans’ services?

• During a government shutdown, all VA medical facilities and clinics will remain fully operational.
• The VA will continue to process veterans’ benefits. 
• The VA suspends communications/support with congressional offices during a shutdown, therefore congressional offices will not be able to assist with veteran constituent casework

For the full list of FAQs, click here.