Government Shutdown

With the government shutdown dominating headlines, I know many folks across Northeast Florida are wondering what it really means—and how it might affect their families, businesses, and daily lives.

As of 12:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, the federal government entered a shutdown after funding authorization expired. In September, I voted to prevent this outcome and keep the government open. Unfortunately, the Senate was unable to reach a final agreement in time.

There’s a lot of misinformation circulating right now, so I’ve compiled a Frequently Asked Questions section to help you understand what to expect, what services may be affected, and how my office will continue to support you. 

QUESTION:Will I continue to receive Social Security and SSI benefits?

Yes. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will continue without interruption. However, some services provided by the Social Security Administration may be limited in availability. You may experience delays in card issuance, benefit applications, verifications, overpayment processing, and customer service due to reduced staffing.

QUESTION:Will Medicare and Medicaid benefits continue? 

Yes. Medicare and Medicaid coverage will remain in place, including the start of open enrollment on October 15. As long as the shutdown does not exceed three months, benefits will continue uninterrupted. That said, contacting agencies may be more difficult due to furloughed staff, and some communications or updates may be delayed or outdated.

QUESTION:Do Veterans receive benefits during a government shutdown?  

Yes, VA benefits will continue to be processed and delivered, including compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits.

All VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers will stay open. VA benefits, including compensation, pension, education, and housing, will continue to be processed. The Board of Veterans’ Appeals is operating normally, and the VA Contact Center remains available at 1-800-MyVA411. Veterans in crisis can also reach help 24/7 by calling 988.

QUESTION:How are active-duty service members affected? 

Essential military operations will continue, and active-duty service members will continue reporting for duty, but will not receive pay until Congress passes a funding agreement or enacts legislation specifically authorizing military compensation. Service members are guaranteed backpay once the government reopens. Congressman Bean is a co-sponsor of H.R. 5401—the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026—which would ensure continued military pay during any lapse in federal funding.

QUESTION:How are military families impacted?

Military families may experience disruptions to base services, including childcare centers, commissaries, and recreational facilities. These could face reduced hours or temporary closures depending on funding and staffing. It’s best to check with your local installation for updates.

QUESTION: Will SNAP benefits continue during a government shutdown? 

Yes, SNAP benefits will continue through October. However, if the shutdown persists beyond that, program funding—including contingency reserves—will be exhausted.

QUESTION:What happens to WIC during a government shutdown? 

Federal funding for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program was expected to run out in October. To prevent disruptions, the White House has announced it will temporarily fund the WIC program by redirecting tariff revenue, allowing services to continue during the shutdown.

QUESTION:Will Head Start programs be affected by a government shutdown? 

Yes, Head Start programs will face increasing disruptions over time. During a shutdown, new grants cannot be awarded, which directly impacts childcare support. Families should contact their local Head Start provider for specific guidance, as availability may vary depending on existing funding and local resources. 

QUESTION:Will my mail still be delivered?  

Yes, all U.S. Postal Service operations continue unaffected, as it is an independent agency not reliant on annual appropriations.  

QUESTION:If I plan to visit Washington, D.C., what can I expect? 

Please note that public museums, national landmarks, and the U.S. Capitol may be closed to the public. That said, our D.C. office remains open to visitors, and we’d be glad to welcome you if you’re in town.

QUESTION: Can you still request a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol? 

No. The U.S. Capitol Flag Office will be closed during the shutdown. Flag requests cannot be processed.  

QUESTION:Will travel be impacted?

The Transportation Security Administration will remain operational. That said, staffing shortages may lead to longer wait times at airport security checkpoints. If you’re flying soon, plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of your scheduled departure time. 

QUESTION:Can I still get a passport? 

Routine passport applications currently take 4–6 weeks to process, and the shutdown may cause additional delays. If you’re planning international travel, it’s best to start your passport application or renewal as soon as possible. If you’re already abroad, U.S. consular services will still be available.