What Does the Government Shutdown Mean for You?

The following information points were posted on U.S. Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick's website. 

• Will I still get my mail? Yes. The U.S. Postal Service functions as an independent business unit.
• Will seniors continue to get Social Security benefits? Yes. Social Security is a mandatory spending program, and the people who send those checks would continue to work under a legal doctrine called "necessary implication."
• Can I get a passport?  The Department of State says, “consular operations domestically and overseas will remain 100% operational as long as there are sufficient fees to support operations.”
• Will food safety inspections continue?  The Food Safety and Inspection Service would continue all safety-related activities. The Food and Drug Administration would limit its activities but continue to monitor recalls and conduct investigations.
• Will this affect my bank? No. Banking and access to your accounts will not be affected. 
• Will disaster response be affected? No.
• What will happen to veterans receiving compensation for service- or combat-related wounds and injuries? The Department of Veterans Affairs it has the funds to continue support into late October.
• Would active-duty military be furloughed? No. All active-duty military are essential and should report as scheduled. 
• Will this diminish our national security? No. Federal law enforcement and government security agencies will continue to serve and protect the American people.
•  Will the IRS continue to collect taxes? Yes. All payments would be processed.
• Will some federal employees continue to work during a shutdown? Yes. Employees considered necessary to protect public health, safety or property will continue to work. Employees necessary for the president to carry out his constitutional responsibilities are exempt. Employees whose salaries are paid from sources outside an annual spending bill can still get paid and report to work.