Government Shutdown Resources
As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1, funding for many federal government operations has lapsed. I voted in favor of a clean, responsible measure in the House to keep the government open, but Senate Democrats chose to block it, forcing a shutdown.
However, my office remains open and ready to assist residents of New York’s 24th District with any issues they are facing with federal agencies. While many agencies will have reduced staff and slower response times, we can still submit casework requests and advocate on your behalf. You can submit casework requests directly through my website.
I will continue to keep you updated on how the shutdown may impact you and your family. Many essential services, such Social Security payments, will continue uninterrupted.
Federal agencies are responsible for implementing their own shutdown plans, and impacts vary by department. For the latest details, visit the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website. For agency-specific updates, visit your department’s .gov page (e.g.,www.usda.gov, www.va.gov).
How did we get here?
Each year, Congress must pass appropriations bills to fund the federal government. On September 19, I supported a clean, short-term funding extension that passed the House and would have kept the government open through November 21 while we completed full-year appropriations.
Unfortunately, Senate Democrats blocked this measure, triggering a government shutdown. As a result, many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate, while essential services continue under law.
What services will continue?
While operations may be slower due to reduced staffing, the following programs will continue during the shutdown:
- Social Security payments, including SSI benefits
- Medicare and Medicaid benefits
- VA medical care and benefits (though some regional offices may be closed)
- Disability payments
- SNAP benefits (though a prolonged shutdown could cause disruptions)
- Mail delivery
- Disability payments
- Federal law enforcement and military operations
- Air travel (though longer security lines are possible)
- Federal employee retirement payments
- Student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans
Certain services may be disrupted: visa and passport processing could take longer, and some National Park access will be limited.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has also expired because of Senate Democrats inaction. I voted to reauthorize the program in the House-passed bill, but it was blocked in the Senate.
- Current policies remain active: Existing coverage and claims will continue.
- New policies and renewals are on hold: No new NFIP policies or renewals can be issued until reauthorization.
- Home closings affected: Properties in Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) still require coverage; private flood insurance may be an option.
Resources for Federal Employees
As agencies shut down, some federal employees will be furloughed while others may be required to work without pay. Under law, employees will receive back pay once the government reopens.
Helpful links: