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 Senate Democrats have obstructed passage of this commonsense legislation to keep the federal government open.
Despite the shutdown, my office is here to help residents of Nebraska’s 3rd 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 while the government is closed.
Federal agencies are responsible for their own shutdown plans, and impacts vary by agency. Visit the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website for the latest details. 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.
How did we get here?
The U.S. Congress must pass annual appropriations measures in order to fund federal government agencies by October 1. On September 19, I supported a measure that passed the House of Representatives extending current federal funding until November 21 while we finish our work for the full fiscal year. This was a clean, straightforward extension of existing funding.
Unfortunately this proposal did not pass the Senate, as Senate Democrats blocked the measure and shut down the government. This means that many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Other programs deemed essential are allowed to continue by law.
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 (NOTE: if you receive Social Security benefits via physical check, there may be delays)
- 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 (although longer security lines are possible)
- 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)
- Partial National Park access (more info here)
Update on the National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has also expired. I voted to reauthorize the program in the House-passed bill to prevent a shutdown, but a lack of Senate action caused the program to expire.
Current policies remain active, and claims will continue to be processed and paid. However, new policies and renewals are on hold.
New policies and renewals are stopped: The NFIP cannot issue new policies or renew existing ones until reauthorized.
Existing policies and claims are safe: Your current policy remains active, and the NFIP will still process and pay claims.
Home closings affected: If you're property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), flood insurance is still legally required for a real estate closing.
Need coverage now?: Talk to your insurance agent about private flood insurance options to meet closing requirements.
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.