Government Shutdown Clock – The White House

As Congress stares down the barrel of a possible government shutdown on Sept. 30, beneficiaries who receive food aid under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) are not expected to experience delays in getting their benefits — at least not immediately.

Officially, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which administers SNAP, said in its 2024 guidance that “core programs of the nutrition safety net” will continue during a lapse in federal appropriations, subject to the availability of funding. But if the shutdown drags on for an extended period, SNAP funding could be depleted, potentially delaying food aid for however long it takes lawmakers to reach an agreement. SNAP supports more than 11 million adults 50-plus. On average, older adults receive about $6 per day in SNAP benefits, also sometimes called food stamps (the name varies by state). A spokesperson for the agency did not immediately respond to questions about updates to its plans for this year. If funding for the program does expire, the USDA typically has some carryover and reserve funds to cover benefit payments for a limited period, said Gina Plata-Nino, interim SNAP director for the Food Research and Action Center, a nonprofit research and advocacy organization.

SNAP benefits are also usually set aside to be paid out a month in advance, Plata-Nino said, so October benefits would be routed to states for payout by the time a shutdown occurs. During a shutdown, food retailers would not be able to renew their Electronic Benefit Transfer licenses if they expired during that time. That means they would not be able to accept SNAP benefits, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

In addition, federal workers could be furloughed until a budget deal is reached, but the USDA said in last year’s guidance that a limited number of employees would be retained in order to continue operations and financial management of its nutrition programs. State SNAP offices, which process new applications and benefit recertifications, would continue to operate as normal in the event of a shutdown. But states do rely on some federal support to administer SNAP, so certain customer service functions, such as issuing new cards, might be impacted if a shutdown is prolonged or more federal staff members are furloughed.

As lawmakers remain at an impasse over federal funding, SNAP is just one of a number of critical services older adults rely on that could be affected by a lengthy government shutdown. “Whether the government’s open or not, we’ll keep fighting to make sure that people can get the services that they need,” said Bill Sweeney, AARP’s senior vice president of government affairs.

Shutdown impacts hard to predict. The duration of a shutdown is hard to predict. In the past, some shutdowns have lasted just a few days, while others, like the one in 2018, went on for more than a month. During that period, SNAP benefits were issued early, but then there was a longer-than-usual gap before the next round of allotments was distributed.

Those disruptions contributed to “negative impacts to SNAP participants, including exacerbating food insecurity, burdening participants with additional stress and confusion, causing financial challenges, and eroding some participants’ faith in government,” according to one study published in Nutrients, an international, peer-reviewed journal.

On Sept. 19, House lawmakers passed an extension that would have punted the funding deadline to November, but the Senate failed to approve the measure or pass its own version. Lawmakers now have until midnight on Sept. 30 to pass another continuing resolution or a full budget before the current stopgap that has been keeping federal programs running expires. The 2026 fiscal year begins Oct. 1. Advocates argue that SNAP offers modest assistance that significantly helps meet basic nutritional needs and enhances health outcomes. But earlier this year, SNAP experienced steep cuts due to a sweeping policy and domestic spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on July 4.

“The only way to keep our country on the path to delivering the America First Agenda and meaningful change is for Congress to consider and pass a clean CR before the September 30th deadline. Continuing America’s comeback success means funding our government. Failing to protect our economic and national security interests at home and abroad would diminish this momentum.”

“This isn’t politics, it’s about PEOPLE. Families deserve a government that works, not one that shuts down and leaves women and children paying the price. A CLEAN Continuing Resolution (CR), which is a short-term bill that keeps our government open and funded, must be passed now!”

Americans for Prosperity (AFP) today expressed support for the House Republican proposal to avert a government shutdown through a relatively clean continuing resolution (CR), which maintains current funding levels and includes targeted security enhancements for lawmakers, executive and judiciary. The measure, which extends funding through November 21, is an effort to keep our government open and functional.

“This continuing resolution is a necessary step to avoid a harmful and unnecessary government shutdown,” said Brent Gardner, AFP’s Chief Government Affairs Officer. “While we support this short- term measure, we do so because the alternative—shutting down the government—is worse and would harm all Americans. Congress should pass the Prevent Government Shutdowns Act to avoid facing the exact same situation all over again.

A bipartisan solution that would implement automatic continuing resolutions and require Congress to stay in Washington, D.C., until appropriations work is complete is still necessary and should be the priority. This commonsense reform would ensure continuity of government services while holding lawmakers accountable for doing their jobs.

Looming shutdowns consistently lead to counterproductive polices filled with provisions that would never survive normal scrutiny. In these moments, lawmakers are more focused on escaping political blame than they are on advancing good policy. It’s a lose-lose scenario that undermines trust in government and delivers poor outcomes for the American people. There’s no reason Washington, should keep repeating this broken cycle.

AFP urges lawmakers from both parties to support this legislation and commit to a more responsible, transparent, and timely budget process.

“The American Legion urge’s Congress to pass the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026 and the VA Extenders Act Of 2025. This legislation ensures continuity for programs that are vital to veterans’ health care, housing, and benefits. By extending authorities for critical initiatives such as the

Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, the RANGE rural mental health program, and the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program, Congress will protect lifelines that combat veteran suicide, expand access to mental health in rural communities, and prevent veteran homelessness. The Act also safeguards education benefits, strengthens housing assistance for disabled and homeless veterans, and maintains oversight tools like the VA Inspector General’s subpoena authority. These extensions are not simply bureaucratic measures; they directly affect the lives of veterans and their families. The American Legion urges swift passage of these bills to keep these essential promises to those who served.”

“We are asking – urging – Congress to not leave millions of patients and beleaguered healthcare providers dangling on the telehealth cliff while they deliberate over dynamics around a government shutdown,” said Kyle Zebley, executive director, ATA Action and senior vice president, public policy at the ATA. “We appreciate that both the House and Senate have been working hard to advance a short- term funding bill. But with Congress out of session this week and not returning until September 29, that leaves only one day before the telehealth flexibilities expire.”

ATA Action is calling on Congress to include a retroactive statement in legislation, in the likely event of a government shutdown, to ensure retroactive reimbursement of telehealth services during that time period.

“What does this really mean for Americans who are relying on virtual care? Medicare beneficiaries will no longer have telehealth visits reimbursed and critical programs like the Acute Hospital Care at Home program could face major disruption. We will basically revert back to pre-pandemic restrictions, severely limiting access to urgently needed telehealth services,” added Zebley. “Hospitals and clinicians will struggle to sustain telehealth-based care if reimbursement disappears. It’s untenable.

“We should at least give providers some reassurance that they will receive back payment for essential healthcare services delivered during this shutdown,” Zebley added. “And give their patients piece of mind that their access to needed care will not be pulled out from under them.”

“AMVETS supports the passage of the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026, which contains vital extensions for the Department of Veterans Affairs. These provisions safeguard critical programs, including the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, the Health

Care for Homeless Veterans (HCHV) Program, and the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Program. Congress must act without delay to pass this measure and ensure the VA can continue delivering lifesaving services to veterans and their families. Looking ahead, AMVETS encourages Congress to prioritize timely, full-year appropriations to provide the VA with the stability and predictability needed to best serve our nation’s veterans.”

We urge elected leaders to act with urgency and in good faith to identify a solution that will keep the government open beyond October 1. Travelers, the shipping public and the dedicated federal employees who protect and maintain our nation’s aviation system deserve continuity. Aviation is the safest mode of transportation, but to maintain that the system may need to slow down, reducing efficiency.

This shutdown threat is coming at a critical moment—on the heels of Congress approving $12.5 billion to modernize the FAA’s antiquated air traffic control system; amid the DOT “supercharging” hiring to get air traffic control facilities fully staffed; and the TSA reporting record numbers of travelers through checkpoints.

When federal employees who manage air traffic, inspect aircraft and secure our nation’s aviation system are furloughed or working without pay, the entire industry and millions of Americans feel the strain. We appreciate the men and women who will be going to work, despite not receiving a paycheck, to ensure the safety and security of the traveling and shipping public. We are proud to work alongside air traffic controllers and other Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) who serve our country, our communities and our airports in a professional manner.

Capt. Jason Ambrosi, president of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), today released a statement urging Congress to take the necessary steps to avoid a government shutdown from beginning at midnight on October 1.

“Every safe departure and arrival in aviation relies on close collaboration across the industry. Our pilots depend on our partners at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), especially hardworking and dedicated air traffic controllers, to help safely shepherd us through the skies.

“A shutdown threatens the stability of the safest aviation system in the world. For years, ALPA has advocated for reliable, long-term funding to protect the FAA from being caught in political gridlock. The staffing shortages and safety setbacks caused by past government shutdowns were unacceptable, and to maintain the highest safety standards, uninterrupted funding to sustain the system that safely moves 2.9 million passengers and 59,000 tons of cargo every day is the necessary path forward.”

“Arizona’s economy thrives on stability. Prolonged debates that put government operations at risk create ripple effects of uncertainty for employers, workers and investors alike. The effects of that uncertainty would extend across our economy, delaying critical government contracts and ultimately threatening both Arizona’s industries and the nation’s economic security. We urge Congress to act swiftly to avoid self-inflicted setbacks that weaken America’s competitiveness at home and abroad.”

The federal government is set to shut down at midnight on September 30 after Democrat leaders rejected a clean “Continuing Resolution” (CR) funding bill under pressure from progressives.

President Donald Trump held a good-faith meeting with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House on Monday in a last-ditch effort to hammer out a deal. But both men refused to budge on Democrats’ outrageous demands that Republicans resume welfare payments for illegal aliens and reverse large portions of the GOP tax cut bill passed earlier this year as a price for keeping the government open.

On September 19, the House approved a CR by a vote of 217–212. The measure would extend funding at current levels until November 21, 2025, providing additional time for both parties to negotiate a longer-term agreement.

The bill mirrored the CR passed earlier this year with bipartisan support, including votes from Schumer and nine other Senate Democrats. Republicans also notably voted for CRs no less than 13 times under the Biden administration to avoid a shutdown.

Despite that precedent, Senate Democrats have blocked the legislation. Because of the Senate filibuster rule, CRs must have at least 60 votes to pass.

Democrat demands include a permanent extension of expanded Obamacare subsidies (which were supposed to be a COVID-19 relief measure), the elimination of Medicaid reforms enacted in Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill – such as modest work requirements for able-bodied adults and measures to ensure illegal immigrants are not enrolled – and new limits on the president’s authority to reduce wasteful federal spending.

Republicans argue those demands are unrelated to the immediate task of keeping the government open and instead represent an attempt to force a reversal of policies that voters endorsed in the 2024 elections. Trump said the White House meeting with Schumer and Jeffries was intended to offer Democrats one last chance to accept a short-term extension without conditions, but no agreement was reached.

If the Senate does not pass the House bill before midnight, funding will lapse, and federal operations will begin shutting down at 12:01 AM on Wednesday. That could mean disruptions to a wide range of services, including military pay, veterans’ programs, air traffic control, TSA operations, disaster relief, rental assistance, small business loans, rural health clinics, and food assistance for low-income women and children.

Republican leaders stress that these impacts can be avoided simply by passing the CR already on the table. “A vote against this bill is a vote against supporting our military, against veterans’ care, against disaster relief and critical community programs,” one House GOP aide said. “It is the Democrats’ refusal to move that is driving us toward a shutdown.”

Outside groups have echoed that warning. AMAC Action urged lawmakers to prevent a shutdown by passing the clean CR. AMAC Action Senior Vice President Andy Mangione said in a statement that “a government shutdown would jeopardize critical services that seniors rely on, from Social Security offices and Medicare assistance to veterans’ benefits and health programs. The confusion, backlogs, and service disruptions that accompany a shutdown create needless anxiety and hardship for older Americans living on fixed incomes.”

He added that AMAC members support Trump and congressional Republicans in rejecting the Democrats’ demands, calling them “unpopular and unreasonable requests.”

The stalemate now hinges on Senate Democrats. Without at least seven Democrats breaking ranks, the resolution cannot advance. Republicans note that the measure Democrats are rejecting is nearly identical to the one they themselves approved in March. Since then, Schumer has faced intense pressure from the progressive wing of his party not to compromise again, and the conditions Democrats have attached to their support reflect that pressure.

The White House has said President Trump remains open to negotiating broader policy issues, but only after government funding is secured. Republican lawmakers say agreeing to Democrats’ terms now would effectively nullify the outcome of the last election by forcing the GOP to abandon its legislative wins. Democrats, meanwhile, have shown no willingness to decouple their policy priorities from the funding debate.

With less than 24 hours remaining, the likelihood of a shutdown appears high. Unless Senate Democrats change course and allow a vote on the House bill, large portions of the federal government will close tonight. Republicans insist they have already compromised by accepting current spending levels rather than seeking cuts, while Democrats continue to demand significant policy reversals as their price for keeping the government open.

For now, the path forward remains uncertain – but all the pressure is on Senate Democrats to see reason and reach a deal.

“The government shutdown may have far-reaching negative impacts across federal agencies and public research universities. The longer this impasse lasts, the more devastating the impacts will be. The clock is ticking. Public research universities are pioneering the next stage of innovation in partnership with the federal government in AI, robotics, quantum computing, and many other areas. This research requires active work with partners at federal agencies who are now prohibited from working during the shutdown.

Collaboration with federal counterparts is essential to safely, securely, and effectively undertaking vital research on behalf of the country. The nation suffers when funding lapses stymie innovation. We urge Congress and the White House to find the path forward to fund the federal government, investing in higher education and pathbreaking research that saves lives, improves quality of life, and fuels economic growth.”

A government shutdown would harm millions of hardworking Americans, including Hispanic families who are part of the federal workforce, depend on small business contracts, and rely on essential services. Past shutdowns have cost taxpayers billions, delayed pay for critical workers, and shaken confidence in the economy. Congress must act quickly to keep the government open and protect the economic stability that Hispanic communities depend on.

Democrats are risking a shutdown that would hit the Black community the hardest, federal workers unpaid, housing & HBCU programs stalled, small business loans delayed. Their reckless games jeopardize the very things they claim to fight for. Pass a CR. Keep gov’t open.

Border Trade Alliance President Ms. Britton Mullen released the following statement as Congress and the administration have yet to reach an agreement that would avoid a lapse in funding when the new fiscal year begins on Wednesday:

“Furloughs, reduced staffing, and any service interruptions would create costly delays and jeopardize economic stability on both sides of the border. Just as concerning, our frontline Customs and Border Protection personnel, who are already stretched thin, would be forced to work without pay, further straining morale, recruitment, and retention.

“The Border Trade Alliance urges the U.S. Senate to swiftly pass a continuing resolution to ensure that our hardworking professionals in cross-border security and trade can continue to do their jobs without a lapse in pay. Preventing a shutdown is essential for trade, security, and the economic well-being of the entire country.”

“With Congress unable to reach a spending deal over preventing increased healthcare costs, the U.S. has entered a government shutdown. The American people are going to pay the price for partisan disagreement. The longer a shutdown lasts, the greater the risk of impacts across our nation’s food system. CSPI encourages Congress to reach a bipartisan funding agreement as soon as possible.

Government shutdowns can threaten food safety efforts operated through the Food and Drug Administration’s Human Foods Program, reducing the program to only emergency inspections. Staff furloughs can also halt or delay longer-term work to reduce chronic, diet-related diseases, review food chemical safety, and prevent foodborne illness.

If the shutdown lasts more than a few weeks and the Trump Administration does not provide additional resources via contingency reserves from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), states will be challenged to keep critical federal nutrition programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) running smoothly.

It is unclear how long states can sustain these programs without Congressionally approved support. However, for now, SNAP beneficiaries do not need to worry about their benefits for October. Chaos, uncertainty, and division are not part of rational policy-making and good governance. Congress should move swiftly to reach a spending agreement and get back to governing.”

The Christian Employers Alliance (CEA), representing hundreds of Christian-owned businesses and tens of thousands of employees nationwide, is calling on Congress to immediately pass the clean continuing resolution (CR) and avoid the unnecessary government shutdown caused by partisan obstruction.

The truth is simple: the clean CR currently before Congress is not a new or radical proposal – it merely extends the budget levels previously negotiated and enacted. While CEA believes significant reforms to federal spending, priorities, and programs are urgently needed, this temporary measure is the responsible path forward to keep the government open, protect essential services, and allow lawmakers to continue negotiating those reforms without disrupting the lives of millions of Americans.

Unfortunately, rather than join Republicans and a growing coalition of responsible leaders to pass the CR, Democrats are refusing to support it. Instead, they are trying to use this moment to force new, far left policy demands – including taxpayer-funded healthcare for work-ready adults and illegal immigrants that have nothing to do with keeping the government running. And as they push the country into a shutdown, members of their own party are preparing to attend a political retreat at a luxury resort in Napa Valley, showing just how out of touch they are and how little concern they have for the Americans caught in the middle of their political games.

The consequences of this obstruction are real. CEA has spent months coordinating meetings between our members – employers, entrepreneurs, and job creators – and their elected officials. These meetings were meant to provide small business owners and Christian leaders a direct opportunity to share their challenges, discuss regulatory burdens, and engage in the policymaking process. If the Democrats continue their games, those meetings will have to be canceled, costing these employers both time and money and robbing them of a valuable chance to be heard by their government.

CEA President Margaret Luculano issued the following statement:

“Passing a clean continuing resolution simply keeps the government functioning under the same terms already negotiated during the Biden administration while giving Congress time to work through needed reforms. The fact that Democrats would rather force a shutdown than accept their own previously approved spending levels is proof that this is not about policy – it’s about politics. Their refusal to act is harming families, businesses, and communities across America, all while they pack their bags for a political retreat in wine country. The American people deserve better.”

CEA urges Congress to pass the clean CR immediately, keep government open, and continue negotiations on long-term spending reforms through the normal appropriations process – without holding the American people hostage to partisan demands.

“Shutting down the government is a short-term action that will have long-term consequences. We urge Congress to fulfill its responsibility to the American people by ensuring the government remains open and getting back to work on advancing meaningful legislation like a new Farm Bill.”

I am writing to you on behalf of the thousands of men and women who serve in the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP). As you know, these individuals perform some of the most difficult, dangerous, and essential work in government service. A government shutdown would not only threaten their livelihoods but would also directly jeopardize institutional security and public safety nationwide. I strongly urge you to work together to avoid this outcome.

The Unique Nature of Bureau of Prisons Operations

Now more than ever, we need to stand united—lawmakers, businesses, faith and community organizations and individuals. We urge Congress to end the shutdown. Shutdowns, especially those that are prolonged, create instability in people’s lives each day they continue and could force many to make impossible choices between putting food on the table and paying their bills. If you or someone you know might be impacted by the shutdown, you can find support through your local food bank at feedingamerica.org/needhelp.”

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce is calling on Congress to take immediate action to pass a continuing resolution and prevent a federal government.

Chris Clark, President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce said:

“A stable Georgia economy requires a stable federal government. Prolonged political debates that risk shutting down the federal government creates ripple effects of uncertainty in communities across Georgia for our members, farmers, small businesses, global investors, and the state’s long-term competitiveness.

“The consequences of inaction extend far beyond Washington. Delays in critical federal contracts, permitting, infrastructure investment, and workforce programs will harm Georgia’s small towns and major industries alike–jeopardizing our state’s growth and America’s global leadership. “We urge Congress to act quickly to protect our employers, our workforce, and critical infrastructure.”

“This clean continuing resolution is a necessary step to keeping the government running even as Congress does the good work to pass responsible appropriations bills through regular order. Americans did not vote for a dysfunctional government. They want a right-sized government, and so far, this Congress has taken that mandate seriously. Furthermore, in light of the horrendous slaying of Charlie Kirk, this CR provides members of Congress with additional protections so that they can serve their constituents. We urge all members to pass this clean CR to prevent disruptions to national security, public safety, veterans care, and social safety net programs while bringing back fiscal responsibility.”

The federal government is scheduled to shut down at midnight tonight. Funding for the fiscal year 2025 runs out, and Congress is poised to once again pass a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government operating for part of fiscal year 2026.

The current state of play does not look good. The House of Representatives, led by conservatives, passed a continuing resolution that would fund the federal government through November 21, 2025. However, the Senate needs 60 votes to pass a filibuster and move to a final vote on the measure, meaning that some Democrats would have to join all Republicans in supporting the measure. The Left is leveraging the threat of a government shutdown to undo spending cuts enacted earlier this year.

This time, the shutdown lies wholly at the feet of Democrats in Congress. They are attempting to stop conservatives from good governance and fiscal restraint.

Here are three things to know about this potential government shutdown.

1. This CR does not cut funding. This continuing resolution continues federal spending for FY 2026 at current FY 2025 levels, which, by the way, are 50% more than in 2019. As my colleague Kamryn Brunner explained, “Federal outlays are estimated to reach $7.02 trillion in 2025, a 58% increase over 2019 federal spending. Six years’ worth of spending increases have happened since 2019, including pandemic emergency spending, the Inflation Reduction Act, the CARES Act, the American Rescue Plan Act, among others.” That’s an enormous increase in spending. American families’ incomes didn’t go up 50% over that time period. While the pandemic has long ended, added spending has not been ratcheted back down, but it should.
2. This is a “clean” CR that avoids contentious policy fights. The CR does not contain contentious policy or spending provisions or riders that are meant to force the opposing side to take public votes on issues they would rather not have on record. As Speaker Mike Johnson explained, “This CR is the same short-term funding extension that virtually all Democrats voted to pass 13 times during the Biden Administration.” So, what makes this CR different from the over a dozen times they voted for a clean CR in the past?
3. This CR clears the way for a budget to be passed—finally. This CR allows for the appropriations bills already passed by all 12 House committees to work through the Senate. This means that Congress would finally pass a budget, and in that budget, Congress can make permanent reductions to federal agencies and programs, making much-needed cuts to federal spending. Congress is finally operating through regular order, and passing this clean CR gives them more time to do that.

What the Left Wants

Democrats are holding this continuing resolution hostage in an effort to restore spending cuts over this year for partisan and even radical agenda items. Their proposal would add an additional $1.5 trillion of spending to this four-week funding bill. They want to:

• Restore free health care for illegal immigrants that was ended by the recent tax cut package (One Big, Beautiful Bill Act).
• Restore $500 million in taxpayer funding to left-leaning news outlets.
• Restore billions in funding for DEI and climate projects in foreign countries through USAID.

These are policy fights that the Left lost when conservatives won last November. Now is not the time to make Americans needlessly suffer.

As Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said back on September 16, 2024:

If the government shuts down, it will be average Americans who suffer most. A government shutdown means seniors who rely on Social Security could be thrown into chaos as the Social Security Administration limits certain services, like benefit verifications or fixing errors in payments. Our veterans could see regional VA offices shut down and support services put on hold. Some of our military service members could be forced to work without pay. Families who benefit from WIC and other nutrition programs could see benefits halted. And a shutdown would shake the confidence of our economic recovery, something we can’t possibly afford at a time like this. If the Left said we could not afford a shutdown last September, then why are they willing to let the government shut down now?

Government shutdowns are the ultimate lose-lose situation. Regardless of the budget battles in Washington, federal fire fighters show up to work every day to protect military installations, airfields, and government offices.

A shutdown means fire fighters are denied pay for their hard work. Fire fighters deserve to know their pay won’t be held up because of partisan battles. The @IAFFofficial urges Congress to pass a bipartisan, clean continuing resolution that keeps the government open. A clean continuing resolution isn’t about politics – it’s the responsible path forward while Congress completes its full-year appropriations bills and fulfills commitments made to those standing on the front lines of public safety.

Alfredo Ortiz, CEO of Job Creators Network, released the following statement in support of the House of Representatives’ continuing resolution and the potential government shutdown:

“Senate Democrats are holding basic government operations and the small businesses that depend on them hostage to taxpayer payoffs to the crony health insurance industry. By refusing to adopt the House’s sensible continuing resolution, Senate Democrats are putting their big health insurance donors above the interests of small businesses and ordinary Americans. If Senate Democrats succeed in shutting down the government, they will own the consequences. Voters in Senate swing states such as Michigan,

North Carolina, and Georgia will make them pay at the ballot box next year for this Schumer shutdown.”

Latinos for America First condemns the looming government shutdown orchestrated by the Democrats, a reckless display of partisanship that puts the livelihoods of hardworking Americans—including veterans, seniors, federal employees, law enforcement, and border patrol agents—at severe risk. Shutting down the government threatens the financial stability of countless families, many of whom have made significant sacrifices for this nation. This behavior from the Left is an unthinkable attack on the very foundation of American life.

Democrats’ willingness to gamble with the welfare of Americans is not only irresponsible but downright dangerous. Their political games hurt veterans who deserve care, seniors reliant on vital support programs, and the very police officers and Border Patrol agents who put their lives on the line daily to protect our communities. For us Latinos, especially those of us who work to uphold law and order or who serve in critical roles on the border, this shutdown signals a stark disregard for our well-being and prosperity.

“As Democrats bring the nation to the brink of a government shutdown, they jeopardize critical funding for veterans, seniors, law enforcement, and many others. As Democrats threaten to disrupt the lives and

livelihoods of millions of Americans, organizations across the country are urging them to follow through on their word, join with President Donald J. Trump and Republicans, and keep government functioning for the people it serves,” President Trump remarked, reiterating the need to prioritize Americans’ stability and security.

A government shutdown disrupts critical programs essential to our community’s success. Latinos for America First knows this will hit close to home. From rising inflation and escalating crime to surges in illegal immigration, families cannot endure another wave of political neglect from radical Leftists who prioritize division over solutions. American families must be able to keep their lights on and their pantries full—period.

Latinos for America First urges Congress to pass a budget that defends American jobs, safeguards community safety, protects families, and restores order. Shutting down the government is a betrayal of public trust and runs counter to the America First vision of prosperity and unity for all Americans.

This chaos cannot continue—AMERICA DESERVES BETTER!

FACT: The House passed a clean extension of current government funding levels through November.

If Democrats block this commonsense bill – which is what the radical Left wants them to do – the government will shut down at midnight.

Make no mistake, this is a #DemocratShutdown.

“Mission Roll Call calls on Congress to ensure uninterrupted funding for critical VA programs — including the Fox Suicide Prevention Grants, Supportive Services for Veteran Families, and Health Care for

Homeless Veterans. These are lifelines for veterans and their families, and their continuation must be guaranteed without interruption.”

Dear Leader Thune, Speaker Johnson, Leader Schumer and Leader Jeffries:

A unified aviation community writes to respectfully urge you to take immediate action to avoid a government shutdown on October 1. Government shutdowns harm the U.S. economy and degrade the redundancies and margins of safety that our National Airspace System (NAS) is built upon. In fact, short-term shutdowns of just a few days, or even threatened shutdowns that are averted in the eleventh hour, negatively affect the NAS and the traveling public.

The NAS moves over 45,000 flights, 2.9 million passengers and 59,000 tons of cargo every day across more than 29 million square miles of airspace. It is the safest, most efficient, and most complex system in the world.

Earlier this year, our community established the Modern Skies Coalition to wholeheartedly endorse Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy’s plans to “supercharge” air traffic controller hiring at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and modernize the air traffic control system. The Coalition also highlighted the need for funding reforms to avoid future FAA shutdowns. We strongly supported Congress’s $12.5 billion down payment toward air traffic control modernization, and we continue to advocate in support of Secretary Duffy’s acknowledgment that additional funding of at least $19 billion will be needed to completely build a new air traffic control system. A government shutdown at this stage would jeopardize the important progress that we all have made on these efforts thus far.

Shutdowns are extremely detrimental to the passengers and shippers as well as the aviation community because they force the FAA to, among other things, suspend air traffic controller and technician hiring and training, delay the implementation of safety initiatives, postpone maintenance and repair work to critical air traffic equipment, suspend air carrier pilot check rides, delay airworthy inspections for aircraft, defer the analysis of voluntary safety reporting, and suspend work on modernization programs. During a shutdown, many FAA employees are furloughed, meaning that they cannot perform their duties that support aviation safety, aircraft certification, and the integration of new entrants—which limits U.S. innovation in aerospace. Additionally, infrastructure programs related to modernization are suspended, such as the construction of new facilities, upgrading of runways and installation of new equipment. The ensuing backlogs cause cascading delays in these critical FAA services long after funding is restored.

Although air traffic controllers, technicians, and other exempted aviation safety professionals continue to work without pay during a shutdown, many other FAA employees who support them are furloughed. To maintain our position as the world leader in aviation, we must always strive to improve safety and efficiency and continuously work further to mitigate risk. The air traffic controller and technician staffing

shortage continues to be a critical problem, and a shutdown would make this problem worse by delaying an already-lengthy hiring and training process. During previous shutdowns, the FAA was required to suspend all hiring and close its training academy in Oklahoma City, which takes additional time to restart after a shutdown ends.

Furthermore, shutdowns are both costly and harmful to our economy. The aviation industry in the U.S. contributes more than 5 percent to the gross domestic product, accounting for $1.37 trillion in 2023, while also helping to drive more than 10 million American jobs. Government shutdowns severely hinder this economic activity. The Congressional Budget Office’s analysis found that the 35-day shutdown in December 2018 through January 2019 cost the U.S. economy $3 billion in forgone economic activity that was never recovered.

Congress must work quickly to avoid another harmful shutdown. The FAA, its dedicated frontline workforce, our aviation community, our economy, and the American public cannot afford a disruption, regardless of how long it lasts.

Dear Speaker Johnson and Leaders Thune, Schumer, and Jeffries:

The National Association of Relators urges Congress to act quickly to extend the National Floor Insurance Program (NFIP) before its September 30^th expiration.

Americans deserve certainty and stability in the floor insurance marketplace so that they can protect their homes, businesses and loved ones. Since 2017, NFIP’s authority has been extended 33 times and allowed to briefly lapse on several occasions. Another lapse of the NFIP will leave millions of Americans at risk and disrupt the purchase of flood insurance in more than 20,000 communities across the United States.

Not only would Americans be unable to purchase new NFIP policies during an authorization lapse, but also property owners currently insured by the NFIP would be unable to renew their policies. Without access to flood insurance, American families must rely on federal disaster aid, which is severely limited. According to NAR research, 1,400 property sales each day could be forced to move forward and go bare

without the protection of flood insurance depending on lender approval. The risk of unnecessary NFIP lapse puts American lives, families, and properties and businesses at untenable risk and must be avoided.

Extending the NFIP will ensure this crucial program remains available, providing essential insurance coverage for residential and commercial property owners, buyers, managers, renters and tenants nationwide. We commend the House Financial Services and Senate Banking Committees for continuing to work on longer-term NFIP reauthorization and reform measures and look forward to Congress bringing some stability and predictability to this essential program.

Today, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane issued a statement thanking the House of Representatives for advancing a continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown:

“We commend the House for passing the continuing resolution. America’s hardworking farmers and ranchers need predictability and stability from government, and House leadership is leading the charge to do just that. We encourage the Senate to follow suit and ensure that this continuing resolution reaches the President’s desk as soon as possible.”

“Following House passage, NCC today is urging the Senate to follow-suit and pass a Continuing Resolution (CR) that would prevent the government from shutting down,” said NCC spokesperson Tom

Super. “Businesses need certainty and the President signing a CR would help provide it.”

“A government shutdown would directly disrupt vital programs like the marketing loan, halt the processing of ARC-PLC benefits, and impede our producers’ access to critical markets and cash flow. The bottom line is a shutdown of the federal government would deliver an additional blow to farmers already navigating immense challenges.”

“The National Grocers Association (NGA), representing America’s independent community grocers, supports passage of a temporary continuing resolution to keep the government funded while Congress completes the FY26 appropriations process. A lapse in funding will seriously jeopardize critical programs that grocers and their customers rely on – including SNAP and WIC – which will have limited funding and threaten food access for millions of low-income Americans should a shutdown occur. Compounding the risks of a shutdown for local grocers and the communities they serve, is the current prohibition on EBT processing fees that is set to expire on October 1st. NGA urges Congress to resolve these dual threats to American communities before the October 1 funding deadline.

Without an extension on the EBT prohibition, independent grocers will face millions in new costs simply as a result of participating in this successful public-private partnership, which may limit grocer participation, and drive-up food prices for American families who can least afford it.”

“One of the most fundamental responsibilities of Congress is to provide funding for the operations of our Federal government—they have got to pay the bills,” Yoes said. “Political divisions and Congressional dysfunction seem to be a growing problem no matter which party controls Congress and the White House.”

The legislation, which passed the House last week, requires 60 votes to pass the Senate. It was rejected by the Senate on a 44-48 vote, with eight Senators missing the vote.

“The bill is a ‘clean’ continuing resolution that will prevent the partial government shutdown that is swiftly approaching,” said Yoes. “The Senate’s rejection will cause major disruptions for programs that fund public safety efforts in our communities. Government officials throughout the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security won’t be able to man their posts and provide support for operations in the field. This should be unacceptable to all Americans.

“On behalf of the FOP’s 382,000 members, I urge the Senate to reconvene, reconsider, and enact the continuing resolution,” Yoes said. “Congress has an obligation to the American people to fulfill one of its core responsibilities.

In response to a possible government shutdown on Wednesday, the National League of Cities (NLC) President Mayor Steve Patterson of Athens, Ohio, issued the following statement:

“As Congress nears a potential shutdown, cities, towns, and villages are preparing for disruptions to federal funding and services that directly affect residents. Local governments may face interruptions in federal agency coordination, delays in crucial grant funding and overall uncertainty for a wide range of community programs. We recognize the legitimate policy concerns outlined by both parties over the nation’s budget, however, we urge Members of Congress to continue working toward consensus and bipartisan compromise for the good of the nation’s cities, towns and villages.”

The National Small Business Association (NSBA) is urging lawmakers to avoid a costly government shutdown. When the government shuts down, small businesses are left holding the bill, whether they do business with the federal government, rely on critical federal programs, or are part of the infrastructure supporting our national parks.

“Manufacturing this magnitude of crisis simply to grandstand and win partisan points irresponsible and unacceptable,” stated NSBA President and CEO Todd McCracken. “While Members of Congress and their staff will continue to get paid, the millions of small businesses who rely on the federal government will not. They, their families and every business in their pipeline will feel the pinch of a shutdown – they always do.”

NSBA is imploring lawmakers to recognize the vast implications of a government shutdown on small business, including:

Millions of small-business federal contractors and subcontractors that will be impacted by contract delays, stoppages and cancellations—regardless of what services or products they already have provided—which WILL affect every business in their supply chain, their employees and their families.

Federal programs such as those under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), particularly their lending programs, will begin to experience long delays due to the absence of staff and inevitable backlog of approvals.

“Government shutdowns are costly political theater that succeed in only two things: weakening the U.S. economy and confidence in our elected officials,” McCracken went on to say. “Now is not the time to send the message to the 70 million people who run or work for a small business that they do not matter.”

Local businesses supporting tourism associated with national parks will experience massive reductions in anticipated revenue.

The National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) Executive Director and CEO Jonathan Thompson released the following statement regarding a possible government shutdown:

“Allowing the U.S. Government to close because of political and ideological preferences is a dangerous and failed policy. The safety of our communities relies on the continuity of operations for our government. A government shutdown for one minute is inexcusable and will needlessly make our community ties less safe. Reasonable people can disagree on policies but using a shutdown as a cudgel is pure politics, and it needs to stop.”

“The turkey industry depends on consistency in federal programs that support food safety, animal health and trade. While essential services will continue, this shutdown creates unnecessary uncertainty for our members and their operations. We strongly encourage Congress to work together to restore government funding and provide the stability needed for America’s food and agriculture system.”

Nature is Nonpartisan always seeks out common ground for common good. Preventing a government shutdown is no different.

The federal government oversees our national parks, national forests, and many other public lands that employ thousands of Americans. A government shutdown could close these lands, furlough park rangers, make wildland firefighters work without pay, and force conservation experts to stop protecting our shared lands and waters. Families across the country have a right to recreation, no matter the political fights taking place in Washington.

We hope to see Congress reconcile their differences for the sake of American workers, American families, and America’s great outdoors.

The government should NOT be shut down over free healthcare for illegal aliens. Period.

You can’t be for illegals and put American workers first. @SenateDems caused higher healthcare costs for all Americans by helping Biden and Harris import millions of illegals.

We’re done being ripped off and subsidizing our competition. Dems and @SenRandPaul will hurt our Military, Border Patrol, Veterans, essential federal employees, and every American even more if they shut down the government. We don’t like CR’s either, but pass the bill. Let’s keep working together to Make America Great Again.

“Keeping the government open should be bipartisan. A clean CR does that without wasting taxpayer money on things like earmarks, pet projects, and attempts to re-fund programs that deserve to be shut down.”

Today, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry President and CEO Luke Bernstein issued the following statement urging Congress to pass a clean continuing resolution and avoid a damaging government shutdown.

“A shutdown would have serious consequences for Pennsylvania’s economy, workforce, and communities — undermining business confidence, disrupting federal services, and threatening critical operations that families and employers rely on every day. A shutdown would threaten important economic progress, delay federal permitting and contracting, and jeopardize essential services that support infrastructure, transportation, and public safety. Passing this continuing resolution to avoid a government shutdown is important for a wide range of Pennsylvania employers — from the largest manufacturers and service providers to the small businesses that power our economy. 

“We commend our Senators, Dave McCormick and John Fetterman, for their bipartisan leadership in calling for a clean continuing resolution. Their efforts reflect a shared commitment to fiscal responsibility and economic resilience. We encourage all members of Congress to follow their example and prioritize responsible governance over partisan gridlock.”

Dear Majority Leader Thune, Minority Leader Schumer, Speaker Johnson, and Minority Leader Jeffries:

On behalf of the Professional Services Council (PSC)—and the 400 PSC member companies that support federal agencies through mission-focused services and solutions—I write to urge Congress to act without delay to pass one or more appropriations bills that will help avoid a lapse in appropriations and the resultant shutdown of the federal government. From an industry perspective, it is critically important to keep the federal government open, ensure delivery of essential solutions to the American people, and avoid the damaging consequences of a federal government shutdown.

As you know, a shutdown disrupts efficiency and effectiveness of agency operations, threatening the ability of agencies to achieve their vital missions. Federal agencies leverage the capabilities of contracting partners to sustain critical operations in defense, cybersecurity, public health, and infrastructure. When funding lapses, projects stall. Procurement cycles are interrupted. Vital work is delayed. National security and emergency preparedness are particularly at risk, as shutdowns impede work on classified systems, intelligence operations, and defense logistics—work that is indispensable to protecting and serving U.S. citizens at home and abroad.

In addition, shutdowns have a significantly destabilizing effect on the contracting workforce and inflict lasting harm on the U.S. business base. Contractors are not only mission partners; they are also over a million constituents and taxpayers in all 50 states, and they rely on stable sources of income for their livelihoods. Unlike federal employees, contractor employees are not guaranteed back pay once a shutdown ends, assuming that they have not been furloughed or laid off during the lapse in appropriations. Aside from the impact on individual lives, the result throughout the government contracting industry is a diminished talent pipeline, weakened morale, and the loss of specialized expertise that agencies need to meet their missions. Prolonged funding uncertainty not only disrupts today’s missions, but also jeopardizes tomorrow’s innovation, resilience, and competitiveness.

Finally, shutdowns weaken the broader economy. The 2018–2019 partial shutdown cost the U.S. economy at least $11 billion with $3 billion in permanently lost Gross Domestic Product, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Small and mid-sized businesses—many of which cannot withstand prolonged disruptions—face existential risks. Of course, we also know that shutdowns are profoundly inefficient: every day the government is closed requires several days of recovery, wasting taxpayer dollars, delaying new initiatives, and forcing agencies and companies alike to repeat administrative processes.

For these reasons, PSC strongly urges Congress to avoid any lapse in appropriations by ensuring timely passage of appropriations bills. The American people—including military personnel, federal civilians, and contractor employees—deserve stable, predictable funding and uninterrupted provision of government services, and our nation’s contracting partners stand ready to support those federal mission sets with unparalleled capabilities, innovation, and commitment.

“SBE Council strongly supports the CR and urges every U.S. House member to vote in favor of this sensible step to keep the federal government open, allowing for discussions to continue on longer-term funding matters. Small business owners, their employees, and local communities are still transitioning through the effects of past policies that imposed multi-year inflationary pressures and higher borrowing costs, among other challenges. They need certainty and confidence that elected officials and government leaders are delivering on stability, not disruptive action that could potentially undermine growth and planning. Advancing the CR signals that Congress is serious about supporting a stable environment and getting back to regular order. Again, we urge U.S. House members to support the CR.”

“We urge Congress to avert a government shutdown and maintain fiscal stability. A clean continuing resolution is the clearest path to avoid disruption and fiscal harm. Our 37 state financial officers from 27 states, stewards of trillions in assets, know federal disruptions burden taxpayers, small businesses and public pensions.

Acting irresponsibly risks undermining hard-won economic progress under President Trump, including support for veterans’ benefits, seniors’ Social Security processing, and critical public safety funding. We urge lawmakers to prioritize fiscal responsibility and protect America’s future.”

“As Congress works to avoid a government shutdown, Texas Farm Bureau urges swift passage of a measure to keep the federal government funded and functioning. A shutdown would create unnecessary hardship for farm and ranch families at a time when they can least afford it. From rising input costs to volatile markets, producers are already navigating significant economic uncertainty.

We cannot afford disruptions to critical USDA services, including those that support disaster assistance, conservation programs and animal health surveillance, especially as we monitor threats like the screwworm, which could devastate livestock operations. Farmers and ranchers need certainty, not more delays. We call on Congress to act responsibly and ensure that essential programs remain accessible to those who feed, clothe and fuel our nation.”

We urge Congress to pass a Continuing Resolution (“CR”). The CR will serve as a stop-gap for funding essential elements of the government. Both parties should unite for the good of the country and the citizenry.

A CR allows Congress several additional weeks to work with fellow members to come to a resolution that benefits America. Passing a CR is not a partisan victory- it is an act of unity and responsibility. It demonstrates to the American people that their elected officials can put aside political differences to maintain stability and continuity. By ensuring the government remains open and functional, Congress can continue important debates about long-term fiscal priorities.

We are asking the Democrat party to work hand-in-glove with Republicans for the betterment of every citizen. The threats to shut down the government must end now. Work in good faith with the Republican Party so that every voter will have the medical services and everyday services that families depend on for communities to run smoothly. A lapse in government operations would not only harm the economy and public health but also jeopardize national security. Again, we ask for divisiveness be replaced with common sense for the good of every American family.

“On behalf of Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA), I urge you to act quickly to pass a clean continuing resolution to prevent a government shutdown. For veterans, a shutdown is not a distant political exercise, but an immediate disruption of care, support, and progress on life-saving Initiatives.”

“While some services like medical care and the veteran’s crisis lines will remain open, many others will grind to a halt. Claims processing, appeals, and benefits decisions will stall, leaving veterans waiting longer for the support they have earned. Community-based programs that fight veteran homelessness will face funding delays, putting already vulnerable veterans at greater risk. And promising new initiatives, such as the Warrior Independence Center, will be forced to wait, undermining urgently needed efforts to reduce both homelessness and suicide among veterans.”

“Every day of delay caused by partisan conflict means veterans remain on the streets, families wait for benefits decisions, and momentum toward solving the suicide crisis is lost.”

“I appeal to both of you, as leaders of your caucuses, to resist the pull of political brinkmanship and work together with the President to keep the government open.”

“Unify U.S. strongly supports H.R. 5371, a clean, short-term continuing resolution that will keep the government open while Congress continues to work on a full-year funding package. Shutting the government down while this work continues is irresponsible and will be harmful to the American people.”

“On behalf of the U.S. Travel Association, which represents all components of the $1.3 trillion U.S. travel industry, I write to urge Congress to act swiftly to keep the federal government open and avoid a shutdown. A shutdown is a wholly preventable blow to America’s travel economy—costing $1 billion every week—and affecting millions of travelers and businesses while placing unnecessary strain on an already overextended federal travel workforce.”

“The consequences of inaction are immediate and severe. A shutdown exacerbates staffing shortages among Transportation Security Administration officers and air traffic controllers, threatening longer airport security lines, flight delays, and cancellations. It halts hiring and training of new air traffic controllers when we are already short more than 2,800 controllers nationwide, and restarting the process adds further delays even after funding is restored. While Congress recently provided a $12.5 billion down payment to modernize our nation’s air travel system and improve safety and efficiency, this urgently needed modernization will stop in the event of a shutdown.”

“Travelers and communities also bear the brunt of closed or neglected National Parks and federally owned museums and attractions, diminished visitor experiences, and the erosion of vital infrastructure that sustains local economies across the country. According to a recent Ipsos survey, 60% of Americans say they would cancel or avoid trips by air in the event of a government shutdown. These harms ripple far beyond airports and parks, threatening jobs, small businesses, and economic growth in every state. Nearly nine in ten Americans across both political parties agree that Congress should work together to prevent a shutdown. The travel industry is proud to support millions of jobs and play an essential role in the U.S. economy. We urge you to meet this moment of responsibility and keep our government funded.”

To the Members of the United States Senate:

As the world’s largest business organization, representing members ranging from the small businesses and chambers of commerce across the country to the leading industry associations and global corporations, we urge you to pass the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026. This legislation will fund the government at current levels, ensuring that the government functions millions of Americans rely on every day can continue as normal and that businesses who contract with the federal government do not experience any lapse in payments.

While businesses of all sizes need certainty through longer-term funding measures, history warns us that even a partial government shutdown has ripple effects on the U.S. economy. When the government partially shut down from December 2018 to January 2019, analysts estimate it reduced economic output by $11 billion in the following two quarters, including $3 billion the U.S. economy never regained.

Shutdowns are harmful to the economy, the American people, and our national security. Therefore, the U.S. Chamber urges you to pass the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026.