Shutdown FAQs

As of October 1st, a government shutdown has taken effect after Senate Democrats blocked legislation to continue funding. Congressman Moore voted for a clean extension to keep the government open.

During the shutdown, Congressman Moore’s office will remain fully open to serve constituents. While some federal agencies may experience delays, our staff will continue assisting with casework, providing updates, and answering questions about how the shutdown may affect you. Call us at (980) 460-8110.

Congressman Moore also introduced a bill to continue essential FEMA recovery efforts during a shutdown — read more here.

What is a government shutdown?

Many federal government agencies and programs rely on annual funding appropriations passed by Congress. Each year, the House and the Senate must pass 12 appropriations bills before the end of the fiscal year, September 30th.

When Congress fails to pass all 12 appropriations bills or a Continuing Resolution before September 30th, federal agencies must discontinue all non-essential discretionary functions until new government funding legislation is passed by Congress and signed by the President.

I recently contacted your office and opened a case with a federal agency. What should I expect?

Our office will be open during regular business hours during the shutdown, and our casework team will be available to answer questions about your case. However, some agencies will not be able to process cases or communicate with congressional offices during a shutdown. Expect delays when dealing with any government agency during this time.

What happens to USPS and mail delivery services? Will I still get my mail? 

Yes, USPS still operates during a government shutdown.

Will I still receive my Social Security, Medicare, or VA benefits during a shutdown?

Yes, these benefits will still go out during a shutdown. Some processes, like benefit verification or replacement of Medicare cards, could be delayed.

I receive SNAP benefits. Will I still receive them?

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is mandatory spending, and you will still receive benefits during a shutdown. Depending on the duration of the shutdown, the ability of the USDA to send out benefits could be impacted.

What happens to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)?

Unlike SNAP, benefits for participants in WIC would stop in the event of a government shutdown. 

I’m a veteran – how will this impact veterans’ services?

During a government shutdown, all VA medical facilities and clinics will remain fully operational. The VA will continue to process veterans’ benefits.

Will this impact my federal loan applications? 

During a shutdown, the Federal Housing Administration and the Small Business Administration stop approving applications for loans and loan guarantees. 

Does a government shutdown impact air travel?

Air traffic controllers and TSA agents are deemed essential but would be required to work without pay.  Depending on the duration of the shutdown, unexpected absences by unpaid employees may lead to travel disruptions.

Can I get a passport during the shutdown?

You can still apply for or renew a U.S. passport during a government shutdown, but processing times may take longer than usual.

Can I still visit National Parks or monuments?

Closures and staffing for National Parks throughout the country will vary. Amenities, including visitor centers, campgrounds, research facilities, museums, and other facilities, would be closed.

During a government shutdown, all Smithsonian museums will be closed, and tours of sites in Washington, D.C., such as the U.S. Capitol Building, White House, and FBI building, are suspended.

Can I still visit the U.S. Capitol?

The U.S. Capitol is closed to tours during a shutdown; however, our D.C. office in the Longworth House Office Building is still open to assist constituents.