FAQs on the Republicans' Government Shutdown
As you may know, the Republicans - who control the House, Senate, and White House - have shutdown the federal government. House Democrats and I are prepared to find a path that will reopen the government and meet the needs of the American people.
I wanted to ensure you have the information and resources you need during the Republican Government Shutdown. Read below for FAQ's.
What is a government shutdown?
The federal government must be funded each year by Congress and signed into law by the President to ensure the government continues to operate and provides services to the American people.
Republicans have failed to pass a funding bill, which has led us to the first government shutdown in seven years.
I opposed the Republicans' funding bill because it would completely gut the healthcare system and increase prices for millions of Americans across the country. In CA-29, almost 59,000 people will lose their health coverage because of Republicans' cuts to Medicaid and nearly 31,000 will see the cost of health coverage soar with the expiration of their health care tax credits.
Is my office closed during a government shutdown?
My office will remain open during Republicans' shutdown and will continue to serve constituents who need assistance. My team is also ready to answer any casework specific questions you may have. Please call (818) 253-3535 for assistance related to federal agencies.
What’s the effect of a government shutdown on the economy as a whole?
According to the Congressional Budget Office, the 2018-2019 government shutdown cost the U.S. economy $11 billion — largely the result of federal workers cutting spending to cope with the loss of their paychecks.
Will I continue to receive my Social Security and SSI checks?
Recipients will continue to receive their Social Security and SSI checks. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will provide limited services for issuing Social Security cards and holding appointments for benefit applications. Additionally, SSA will stop some activities like benefit verifications and processing overpayments. The public will likely experience increased wait times for customer services.
Will Medicare and Medicaid benefits be affected?
Medicare, Medicaid and disability insurance will be largely unaffected by a shutdown lasting less than three months. Current beneficiaries will continue to receive their benefits.
What is the impact on veterans’ services?
All Veterans Affairs (VA)medical facilities and clinics will remain fully operational. The VA will continue to process veterans’ benefit.
Will air travel be affected?
Air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers will remain on the job without pay. If some do not report to work, as has happened in prior shutdowns, there may be significant delays and longer wait times across the country.
Will military and federal retiree benefits be suspended?
Military and federal retirees will continue to receive their retirement benefits. Processing new applications or other requested changes will be delayed.
Will my mail still arrive?
Yes. The U.S. Postal Service is not affected by a shutdown.
What is the impact on small businesses?
In prior shutdowns, the Small Business Administration (SBA) stopped processing new business loans, such as through the7(a) and 504programs. However, SBA’s Disaster Loan Program continued regular operations.
What is the impact on federal housing loans?
In prior shutdowns, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) stopped insuring some new mortgages and the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) stopped processing some new loans. The Department of Agriculture (USDA) also stopped new loan and loan guarantee activity. The VA will continue to guarantee home loans.
What is the impact on disaster relief efforts?
FEMA staff will still respond to emergencies. In prior shutdowns, long-term projects were delayed due to a lack of funding in the Disaster Relief Fund.
What is the impact on food safety activities?
In prior shutdowns, some Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food safety activities —such as routine inspections of facilities — were delayed.
Will passports still be processed?
Yes. The passport agency will remain open, however there way be delays in a prolonged government shutdown. We will update you if operating status changes.
Can I still submit applications to a federal agency?
Yes. Federal agencies are continuing to accept and process applications. We will update you if operating status changes.
For the latest updates and FAQ's on the shutdown, make sure to check back on this webpage and social media. As YOUR Member of Congress, I will continue to represent YOU and am committed to conducting oversight on this Administration, protecting our most vulnerable, and serving the constituents of California’s 29th Congressional District. If you or a loved one needs help with a federal agency, including renewing a passport, receiving Social Security payments, or applying for a visa, please contact my office. My office remains open and ready to help.