What is the impact on our troops during a Government Shutdown?                   

Dear Texans,

As you are likely aware, a government shutdown began at 12:00 AM on Wednesday, October 1^st, after funding for the federal government expired. I, along with my colleagues in the House, voted for a clean funding extension to keep the government open for the American people. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats have continued to vote against the measure, forcing critical federal operations to lapse. 

While essential defense and national security operations will continue, the shutdown has placed unnecessary strain on the men and women serving our country and their families. It is vital that our troops receive the full support, pay, and resources they have earned. These disruptions undermine the mission of protecting the United States both at home and abroad. 

Impacts on Our Troops and Military Families: 

• Delayed Pay for Servicemembers: Active-duty military personnel will continue to serve without pay until government funding is restored, creating financial uncertainty for thousands of service members and their families.
• Paused Training and Operations: Non-essential training exercises, maintenance, and readiness activities may be delayed or canceled, potentially affecting long-term preparation. 
• Family Support Programs: Many base services, such as childcare, counseling, and family readiness programs, are operating at limited capacity or temporarily closed, increasing the strain on military families. 
• Civilian Defense Workforce: Thousands of civilian employees supporting military installations and logistics are currently furloughed, impacting daily operations and mission support. 
• Veteran Services: While VA medical facilities remain open, certain administrative services, including claims processing and outreach programs, may experience delays. 

These disruptions come at a time when our armed forces are already facing increased global challenges and demand for readiness. Each day the government remains shut down, we send the wrong message to our servicemembers and our adversaries alike – that politics can come before our national defense. 

Services Remaining Operational: 

Active Military Operations: All active missions, deployments, and defense activities essential to national security will continue. 

VA Healthcare Services: Hospitals, clinics, and emergency care for veterans remain open and operational. 

Defense Commissaries: Overseas commissaries will stay open to ensure access to essential supplies for our troops and families abroad. 

My office remains open and available to assist you throughout the shutdown. We can help connect you with local resources and provide updates as federal agencies resume operations. 

Sincerely, 

Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) 
Chairman, House Committee on Small Business ,