Government Shutdown Resources

As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1, funding for many federal government operations has lapsed. 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 is here to help residents of North Carolina’s 6th District with issues they are facing with federal agencies. While many federal agencies may have slower response times and minimal staffing, 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. Federal agencies closing operations are still working on their shutdown plans.

Impacts vary by agency. Visit the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website for the latest details.  

How did we get here?

Congress has one job when it comes to funding the government: passing annual spending bills by October 1. On September 19, I voted for a clean, straightforward bill to keep the lights on and extend funding through November 21 while we finish the full year’s work. The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act passed the House 217 to 212, with one Democrat supporting the measure.

Unfortunately, in the Senate, the measure failed 55 to 45, coming short of the 60-vote threshold, with every Republican voting to continue to fund the government along with 2 Democrats and 1 Independent Senator.

What does it mean? It means by law, only essential services remain open, and many agencies are closed.

What kinds of services will continue?

While the programs listed below will continue, the agencies responsible for administering them may see reduced workforces, impacting operations. 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)

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 .gov site (e.g., www.dhs.gov, www.va.gov) and check their HR or shutdown resource pages. 