As you may know, a government shutdown began at 12:00 AM on Wednesday, October 1 after funding authorization for the federal government expired. Last month, I voted to avoid this situation and extend funding through November 21 with a bipartisan continuing resolution. Unfortunately, Senate Democrats requested that liberal policies be inserted into the bill, and did not support the simple legislation.
I am working for a solution which cuts wasteful spending, keeps our country safe, and promotes the best interests of hardworking men and women in North Carolina. However, I understand this shutdown will be a challenge for families in communities across North Carolina's Seventh Congressional District. I am passing along the information below to address some of the most common topics about what the shutdown means for you and your family.
My Offices
My team and I will be working throughout this shutdown. This year, we have responded to tens of thousands of messages, emails, and phone calls, and we will continue to respond to those during the shutdown. We have also helped NC-07 residents reclaim hundreds of thousands of dollars owed to them by federal agencies including the VA, Social Security, and the IRS.
Unfortunately, our ability to help constituents with situations like this will be affected by the shutdown as many departments and agencies will not be processing casework during the shutdown. However, that work will resume once federal funding is resolved. If you are experiencing an issue with a federal agency, please call my office at (910) 395-0202 or fill out this form, and we will work with you on the paperwork that must be completed so we can file your case as soon as we are able.
Finally, my team and I will not be able to process flag orders and arrange tours of the United States Capitol or other landmarks for constituents visiting Washington, D.C.
Social Security
The Social Security Administration is mandatory spending for the federal government. If you are a Social Security recipient, you will receive your Social Security payment. However, if you are waiting for benefit verifications or disability claims, you may experience a delay in having those processed.
Medicare and Medicaid
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services programs will continue to operate as normal during the shutdown.
The VA
All VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will be open. VA benefits, including compensation, pension education, and housing benefits will continue to be processed. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals will also continue to operate normally. The VA Contact Center will remain open and can be reached at 1-800-MyVA411. The Veterans Crisis Center is also available 24/7 to help veterans who call 988.
Unfortunately, some VA services will be impacted by the shutdown. Regional benefits offices will be closed, along with the GI Bill hotline, and career counseling.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS)
USPS will not be interrupted.
Farm Service Agency (FSA)
FSA will continue to service farm loans during this time, and it will also provide emergency loans, although this service may be slower than usual.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
TSA will continue to operate. There may be, however, longer than usual waits to go through security at the airport. If you have a flight planned, I suggest getting to the airport earlier to ensure you get through security in a timely manner.
Passports
There is currently a 4-6 week processing time for routine passport applications. The shutdown may lead to longer delays. If you plan to travel internationally and you need to renew your passport or get a new passport, it is recommend that you begin the process as soon as possible.
If you are currently abroad, U.S. consular services will still be provided.
Again, my team and I will continue to work throughout this government shutdown for our constituents and hope to bring it to a swift end. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
