"While many federal agencies may have slower response times and minimal staffing, my team can still submit requests and advocate on your behalf."
–U.S. Rep. Morgan Luttrell
Texas Insider Report WASHINGTON, D.C. – As of October 1, 2025, the federal government has shut down, meaning funding has lapsed for many federal government operations. I understand there are questions about what is impacted during this time — and I’m here to answer them.
Below is a list of federal agencies and how their services will be impacted by the shutdown. Please keep in mind the agencies responsible for administering them may see reduced workforces impacting operations.
Social Security:
Social Security recipients will continue to receive social security checks. However, those waiting for benefit verifications or disability claims may experience delays in processing.
Medicare and Medicaid:
Medicare and Medicaid services will continue.
The VA:
The VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will remain open during the shutdown. VA benefits, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits, will continue to be processed and delivered. Burials will also continue at VA national cemeteries, and applications for headstones, markers, and burial benefits processing will continue. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals will also continue to make decisions on veterans’ cases. The VA Contact Centers (1-800-MyVA411) and the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988, Press 1) will continue to be open 24/7.
SNAP:
SNAP benefits will continue. However, an extended shutdown could cause disruptions.
U.S. Postal Service:
U.S. Postal Service operations will not be interrupted and mail will continue to be delivered.
Law Enforcement and Military:
All military personnel on active duty, including National Guard and Reservists on Federal orders, will be required to report for duty and carry out orders. DoD civilians who perform national security activities must work but will not be paid until the government is funded. Additionally, military families will have access to critical healthcare services but not elective surgery or routine medical and dental procedures. DoD schools will also remain open for the children of service members.
Air Travel:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will continue to operate. However, personnel could be impacted by the shutdown causing longer security wait times. If you plan on traveling, it is recommended to arrive early to the airport.
Visas and Passports:
Although longer wait times are expected, passports and visas will continue to be processed. If you have international travel plans and you need to renew your passport or get a new passport, please begin the process as soon as possible. If you are currently abroad, U.S. consular services will still be provided.
Federal Employee Retirement payments:
Federal retirees will continue to receive retirement benefits.
Other services that will continue during a federal government shutdown:
- Student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans
- Visits to the national Smithsonian Museums (until at least Saturday, October 11)
- Partial National Park access (more info here)
- Our casework request portal can be found here.
Congressman Morgan Luttrell represents Texas' 8th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of Montgomery, Walker, Harris, and all of San Jacinto and Polk Counties. He serves on three Committees in Congress: the House Armed Services Committee, the Committee on Homeland Security, and the Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 
