Federal Government Shutdown FAQ's

Federal Government Shutdown FAQ’s

The federal government has entered a shutdown as of 12:01 AM ET on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

While many federal operations have paused during this time, my DC and district offices in Corpus Christi and Victoria have remained open and are available to assist you and your family. For constituent services, please contact either my Corpus Christi Office (361-884-2222) or the Victoria Office (361-894-6446), who will be happy to assist you in navigating the federal bureaucracy. My D.C. office can be contacted at 202-225-7742 if you wish to share your thoughts on this matter and any other pieces of legislation.

Please note that each government agency will be releasing its own guidance regarding the shutdown. Below are some frequently asked questions about the shutdown.

Why did the government shut down?

  • A shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass legislation that funds federal programs and agencies. The House of Representatives passed legislation to fund the government through November 21st, but the Senate has not reached the 60-vote threshold necessary to approve the measure. This has caused a lapse in funding for the federal government.

How long will the shutdown last?

  • There is no set length for the shutdown. Senate passage of the House-passed funding bill would send the bill to President Trump’s desk for signature, thus ending the shutdown.

Will I continue to receive my Social Security, Medicare, or retirement benefits?

  • Recipients should continue to receive their Social Security, Medicare, and retirement benefits. Customer service or processing delays may occur.

What is the impact on active-duty military and military veterans?

  • Active-duty troops and National Guard members will continue their duty. VA healthcare services, facilities, and clinics will remain operational.

Will my mail delivery continue?

  • All U.S. post offices will remain open, and mail will still arrive since the Postal Service is not funded by Congress.

Will I still be able to fly commercially?

  • TSA, FAA, and CBP agents will continue their duties in providing safe and dependable travel across the country. Things such as hiring and supplemental training in these agencies may be put on hold, which can cause delays.
  • Passport applications and visa services should continue to be processed.

Will I still be able to visit the National Parks?

  • As of October 1st, the Department of the Interior has issued guidance stating that most parks are expected to remain open, although some areas, like visitor centers, may be temporarily closed or unstaffed. Park roads, lookouts, trails, and open-air memorials will also stay open.

Will I still be able to visit the monuments and museums in Washington, D.C.?

  • Smithsonian museums, research centers, and the National Zoo will use prior-year funds to remain open to the public during the federal government shutdown at least through October 11th, 2025. All the open-air monuments in Washington, D.C., will remain open throughout the government shutdown.

Will I still be able to go on tours in the Capitol and the White House?

  • The Capitol Visitor Center and the White House will both be closed for tours. Our office will also be unable to offer staff-led Capitol Tours because of House shutdown rules. If you had a tour scheduled through my office that has now been cancelled, please reach out to my DC Office at 202-225-7742.

Which federal employees keep working during a government shutdown?

  • Federal agencies are required to classify their employees as either “essential” or “non-essential.” The employees classified as “essential” continue to work during the shutdown but without pay until the government reopens. Employees classified as “non-essential” are temporarily put on non-duty, non-pay status until after the shutdown ends.

When will government employees be paid?

  • Under federal law, furloughed government employees receive back pay once a government shutdown ends.
  • For government contractors, pay during a shutdown is determined by each individual company. Backpay is also determined by the agency of jurisdiction, as well as the individual company.

Government Shutdown Plans by Agency