A government shutdown began on October 1, 2025, after federal funding authorization expired. According to a statement, House Republicans passed bipartisan legislation intended to keep the government open and funded. However, the plan was blocked in the Senate. The statement says, “House and Democrats continue to demand $1.5 trillion in unrelated liberal priorities instead of voting to keep the government open.”
Despite the shutdown, constituent services from Representative Andy Harris’s office will remain available. However, tours of federal landmarks such as the United States Capitol, the White House, and other agencies in Washington, D.C. are suspended for now.
Essential services continue during the shutdown. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and air traffic control operations remain unaffected, though travelers may experience longer wait times at airport security. Emergency response by FEMA is operational. Medicare and Medicaid benefits are not impacted, and payments from Social Security continue as usual.
The U.S. Postal Service remains in operation. Veterans Affairs hospitals and clinics stay open, but some benefits offices and counseling services may be closed. The VA Contact Center is still available at 1-800-MyVA411, and the Veterans Crisis Center remains open 24/7 for veterans in need.
Passport processing may see delays beyond the standard 4-6 weeks during the shutdown. Consular services abroad will remain open, but individuals seeking new or renewed passports are advised to begin the process promptly.
For federal employees seeking information about operating status or furlough guidance, resources are available through the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). Employees can also check their respective department websites for agency-specific updates regarding shutdown operations.
Andy Harris has represented Maryland’s 1st district in Congress since 2011, after replacing Frank Kratovil. He previously served in both chambers of Maryland’s state legislature from 1999 to 2011. Harris was born in New York City in 1957 and currently resides in Cambridge. He graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1977.
“Despite the shutdown, my office will remail open without delay to constituent services, but we will not be able to arrange tours of the United States Capitol, the White House, federal agencies, or other landmarks for constituents visiting Washington, D.C. at this time,” Harris stated.
