Government Shutdown Resources
On September 19, 2025, I voted to pass H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, a clean short-term funding extension to keep the federal government open and operational. The House did its job, but the Senate, which required 60 bipartisan votes to pass this legislation, voted instead for a government shutdown which went into effect at midnight on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
During this shutdown, my team will continue to assist constituents, and our phone lines will remain open. Certain services and response times from federal agencies may slow or cease. We will continue to seek guidance from federal agencies about what services remain available as the situation develops.
What Is a Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown occurs when discretionary federal funds are not appropriated by the end of the fiscal year or the most recent funding deadline, in this case by Tuesday, September 30, 2025. This means that many federal agencies do not currently have the appropriated funding to operate. Not all government services will be impacted by the shutdown, including programs funded by mandatory spending.
Will My Services Continue?
Below is a list of federal services that will continue. This list is not comprehensive and may change depending on the duration of the shutdown. Services that remain available may be subject to additional delays due to staff furloughs and a temporary reduction in workforce.
- Social Security benefits will continue for current recipients, but there may be delays enrolling or interacting with agency staff
- Medicare benefits will continue for current recipients, but there may be delays enrolling or interacting with agency staff
- The United States Postal Service will remain operational
- Veterans services such as those provided by the Veterans Health Administration and the Veterans Benefits Administration will continue. VA call centers, veteran interments, and veteran homelessness programs will not be impacted. Other veteran services such as education and career support have been suspended
- SNAP and WIC benefits will continue for a period of time, but may be impacted by a prolonged shutdown
- Air travel will remain operational, but travel times and TSA lines may be impacted
- Pell Grants and federal student loans will continue to be disbursed. Student loan payments are still due during a government shutdown
- Passport agencies are expected to continue offering services, however delays and additional fees are possible
- Smithsonian museums will continue operation until at least Monday, October 6, 2025. U.S. Capitol tours have been suspended
I’m a Federal Employee, What Now?
During a government shutdown, federal employees will either be furloughed or deemed essential workers and required to work without pay. This includes federal law enforcement, active-duty military, air traffic controllers, and thousands of other federal workers across Long Island. Under federal law, employees are entitled to back pay upon the government reopening.
Find specific information on how your workplace will be impacted by visiting your agency’s official website for shutdown guidance and resources.
What If I Have More Questions?
Please don’t hesitate to contact my office with questions or concerns related to federal services and agency operations, or for further assistance. My office is here to help in any way we can.