October 2, 2025
Dear John xxxxxx,

A government shutdown brings real uncertainty for families in Texas' 29th district and across the country. From federal workers and military personnel to seniors, veterans, and parents who rely on programs like SNAP to put food on the table, a shutdown is never easy. I know many of you are worried about what it means for you and your family. 

I want you to know this: my Houston and Washington offices will remain open, and my team is here to serve you, just as we always have. 

We have already heard from neighbors with questions about what services will continue and what might be disrupted. Below, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions. My office will continue to share updates as we receive them. If you need assistance, please call my Houston office at (832)325-3150 or my Washington, D.C. office at (202)225-1688. 

Mi casa es su casa. My door is always open. 

WILL YOU BE IMPACTED BY A GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN?

Will I continue to receive my Social Security or SSI checks?
Yes. Social Security and SSI checks will continue to be issued. However, claims processing may be delayed and customer service wait times could be longer. Some non-critical services, such as benefit verifications, may be paused.

What about Medicare and Medicaid?
Your coverage will not be interrupted. But administrative tasks, such as getting a replacement Medicare card, may be delayed.

What happens to my Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits?
SNAP, which helps 42 million Americans put food on the table, will continue in the short term. But contingency funds are limited. If the shutdown drags on, benefits could be delayed or disrupted — leaving families without the help they depend on to feed their children.

What about federal workers?
Most federal employees will either be furloughed without pay or required to work without pay until the shutdown ends. By law, federal employees are guaranteed back pay once the government reopens. Federal contractors, however, are not guaranteed any back pay.

What about U.S. military personnel?
The Department of Defense will continue defending our nation, and all service members, Guard, and Reservists will continue their duty. However, they will not receive pay during the shutdown, though back pay is provided once the government reopens. Military retirees will keep receiving benefits, but new applications or changes may be delayed.

What about veterans’ services?
VA hospitals and clinics remain open. However, benefits processing, call centers, and education or housing support services could be disrupted.

Will my mail still arrive?
Yes. The Postal Service will continue to deliver mail, and all post offices will remain open as usual.

What about National Parks and air travel?
National Parks may remain open, but visitor centers, restrooms, and maintenance often close during a shutdown. TSA officers and air traffic controllers will still work, but travelers should expect longer lines and possible flight delays. Passport services continue, though with potential delays.

What about small business loans, housing, food safety, and CDC work?
New SBA small business loans are paused during a government shutdown, meaning no new loans will be processed or approved. The Federal Housing Administration will also stop approving applications for housing loans, creating major delays. FDA food safety inspections will slow significantly. The CDC will scale back disease tracking and prevention efforts.

Will immigration services still function?
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue operations, but staff shortages mean longer processing times and possible delays.

How does a shutdown end?
Congress must pass funding bills that the President then signs. The President cannot end a shutdown unilaterally.

Sincerely,

Sylvia R. Garcia
Member of Congress

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