How Did We Get Here?

Each year, Congress must pass appropriations bills to fund the federal government by October 1. When that deadline passes, agencies lose their authority to operate at full capacity, and a shutdown occurs. As of October 1st, funding for many federal government operations has lapsed.

In the weeks leading up to this shutdown, I supported measures to extend current funding while Congress finished its work on the full-year bills. These proposals were straightforward extensions designed to keep the government open without unrelated policy provisions.

On September 19, the House passed a clean extension of current funding through November 21 so we could complete the appropriations process. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats blocked this measure and allowed funding authority to expire. This severely limits operations across many federal agencies, while core programs required by law continue. I will keep working to restore funding in a responsible way and ensure we return to regular order.

 

What This Means for You

Below is an overview of how a shutdown may affect you and your family:

 
Social Security, Medicare and Veterans’ Benefits

1. Social Security payments will still be issued. Retirees, survivors and those with disability benefits will continue to receive payments.
2. Medicare and Medicaid services will also continue. However, some support functions may experience delays. If you run into difficulty scheduling care or receiving documentation, our office can work with you to connect with the appropriate agency staff.
3. Veterans’ benefits such as health care and disability compensation remain funded and will continue without interruption.

Mail Delivery

1.  Mail service will continue throughout the shutdown.
 
Federal Agencies and Services

1. Air travel: Airport security and air traffic controllers are considered essential and will continue working, though travelers may experience longer wait times if staffing is strained. Planning extra time at airports is recommended.
2. National Parks and museums: Access may be closed or limited depending on available resources. Our office can help you check the status of specific locations before planning a visit.
3. Small Business Administration loans, USDA services and certain federal grant programs may pause or slow down. If you are awaiting a loan or farm service action, we can provide updates and help you explore temporary state or local resources until federal services resume.

Community and Economic Impacts

1. Federal employees who are furloughed may face delayed paychecks, which can affect local economies and services. While most agencies will provide back pay once funding is restored, employees may qualify for temporary support in the meantime. 
     
         1. In Florida,  furloughed employees may apply for Reemployment Assistance through the state’s unemployment system.
         2. They may also apply for Unemployment Compensation for Federal Employees (UCFE), administered by the Florida Department of Commerce.
         3. If back pay is later issued, repayment of some benefits may be required, depending on state rules.
         4. Our office can help connect you with available resources.
2. Processing of passports, visas and federal permits may slow down or stop depending on how long the shutdown lasts. Our office can advise you on urgent travel needs and help track the state of pending applications.
3. Federal contractors may also experience delayed payments. Contractors should contact their employers about contingency planning. Our office can assist by providing updates from the contracting agency when available.

Flood Insurance & Home Closings 
  • National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): During a government shutdown, FEMA cannot issue new or renewal NFIP policies. Existing policies remain in effect until their expiration dates, and claims will be paid as long as funds are available.
  • Home buyers: In Florida, lenders often require flood insurance for properties in high-risk flood zones. Without coverage, scheduled home closings may be delayed.
  • Casework help: If you run into problems during the shutdown, our office can connect you with the appropriate federal contacts.

Staying Informed
Our office remains open to serve constituents throughout a shutdown. If you need assistance with Social Security, Medicare, veterans’ services or any other federal agency, please contact us directly. You can call our office at (863) 644-8215 or submit a casework request online here.

While we cannot expedite agency processing during a funding lapse, our office remains committed to helping navigate available options, and keeping you informed of any updates as the situation develops.