The government shutdown is having harmful impacts on veterans across the Tampa Bay area and the entire country. A comprehensive FAQ on the Shutdown’s Effect on Veterans Affairs is available here

If the shutdown continues into late October, veterans benefits will be suspended, veterans’ appeals for disability benefits halted and VA National Cemeteries will conduct a reduced number of burials each day, according to the House Veterans Affairs Committee. 

"House Republicans have been particularly irresponsible and have elevated their political agenda over the well-being of American veterans, families and businesses," U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor said as the shutdown enters its third week and House Republicans flirt with a very dire default of America's full faith and credit.  

"In addition, more than 600,000 veterans work for the federal government. So many of them may not only miss a paycheck, but also lose their VA benefits. It is unconscionable that House Republicans continue to block reasonable solutions to end the shutdown.” 

“Mr. Chairman, this shutdown could end today if Congress would fully fund government operations so that VA and the rest of the federal government can get back to work,” VA Secretary Eric Shinseki said earlier this month before the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. “There are those who have suggested a piecemeal approach, to pick and choose which parts of the government to fund. This is not the best solution for our veterans and our nation."

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