Friend-

As of January 20^th the federal government entered into a shutdown due to a lack of appropriations. I’m extremely disappointed in Congress for failing to do its job and continuing to budget by crisis. Going forward, we must get Congress back to passing a budget and appropriations bills on time. I have repeatedly introduced pieces of legislation, the No Budget, No Pay Act and the Stay on Schedule Resolution, that require Members of Congress to do their jobs or not get a paycheck or vacation.

It is unacceptable for Congress to fail in fulfilling one of its most basic duties outlined in the Constitution. We should feel the consequences for not doing our job. I want you to know that until this government shutdown is over, I am having my paycheck withheld. Once Congressional leaders can reach an agreement and we reopen or government, I will donate my pay from during the shutdown to a military-related charity.

While the President and Congressional leadership continue negotiations to reach a deal to fund the government, my office will continue to remain open Monday-Friday 9:00AM-5:00PM should you need any assistance.

Stafford: 540-659-2734 
Hanover: 804-730-6595
Tappahannock: 804-443-0668
D.C: 202-225-4261                       

For specific information regarding contingency plans of any federal department or agency, please refer to the Office of Management and Budget for a link to each plan.

Will veterans hospital be open?
Yes, Veterans Hospitals remain open.

Will I get continue to get my mail?
Yes. The United States Postal Service operations will not be impacted.

Will I continue to receive my Social Security Benefits?
Social Security checks will continue to be mailed out.

What happens to Medicaid and Medicare?
Medicare and Medicaid will be unaffected.

What about airports?
Commercial air traffic will continue unaffected. Air traffic controllers, Customs and Border Protection workers and TSA agents, will continue to do their job.

Will National Parks be open?The Department of Interior has state is interior to keep as many parks, lands, and monuments open. Accessibility to parks is on a  case by case basis. For more information, visit U.S. Department of the Interior website.

I set up a tour through your office. Will it occur?
The following locations will not be hold tours during the government shutdown: White House, Capitol, Library of Congress, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

What about federal courts?
The federal Judiciary will remain open and can continue operations off of fees and other funds for approximately three weeks.

 What’s the status of the military?
Active duty servicemembers will still go to work. You can read further Department of Defense guidance here. I’m supportive of legislation to ensure pay for our men and women in uniform.

Below are some more materials to answer questions you may on government operations during a government shutdown: https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/agency-contingency-plans/

Everything you need to know about a government shutdown, Washington Post

Government shutdown 2018: What’s open and what’s closed?, NBC News

Here’s What’s Open During the Government Shutdown — And What’s Closed, Money

You can give my office a call as well. It's an honor to serve you and Virginia's First District in the People's House.

Sincerely,

Rob

Offices