Dear Friend,

At 12:00 AM on the morning of October 1st, 2025, a government shutdown took effect after funding authorization expired for the federal government. 

12 days ago, House Republicans passed bipartisan legislation to keep the government open, fully funded, and serving the American people. Unfortunately, that responsible plan has been blocked in the Senate as Democrats continue to demand $1.5 trillion in unrelated liberal priorities instead of voting to keep the government open.

Despite the shutdown, my office will remail open without delay to constituent services, but we will not be able to arrange tours of the United States Capitol, the White House, federal agencies, or other landmarks for constituents visiting Washington, D.C. at this time.

Services That Will Remail in Effect:

Airport Security: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues unaffected. Travelers may face longer wait times going through airport security.
 
Air Traffic Control: Operations are deemed essential and will go unaffected.

FEMA: Emergency response functions will remain operational.

Medicare and Medicaid: Operations are deemed essential and will go unaffected. Benefits will not be impacted during a government shutdown.

Passports: Standard processing currently takes 4-6 weeks. During a shutdown, delays may increase. To renew your passport or get a new passport, it is recommended that you begin the process as soon as possible. All consular services abroad will remain open.

Social Security: Payments will continue to be sent out to recipients.

U.S. Postal Service: Operations are deemed essential and will go unaffected.

Veterans Affairs: All VA hospitals and clinics will remain open. Some benefits offices and counseling services will be closed. The VA Contact Center will remain open and can be reached at 1-800-MyVA411. The Veterans Crisis Center is also available 24/7 to help veterans who call 988.

Resources for Federal Employees

     ● OPM Operating Status
     ● OPM Shutdown Furlough Guidance

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.