Metro East Sun

As of October 1, 2025, many federal government operations have shut down due to the lack of an approved funding resolution. U.S. Representative Mike Bost expressed understanding of the frustrations faced by Southern Illinois residents as a result of the shutdown and its uncertainties. Bost stated, "That’s why I supported a House-passed funding package to keep the government running at current funding levels until November 21, 2025; however, the proposal did not pass the Senate."

Despite these developments, Bost assured constituents that his offices in Washington, D.C., Mascoutah, Murphysboro, and Effingham remain open to assist with federal issues. He noted that while some agencies may experience slower response times and reduced staffing levels during the shutdown, his office can still submit requests and advocate for constituents.

Bost also informed residents that services such as flag orders or arranging tours of Capitol landmarks are currently unavailable. Some popular tourist sites like Smithsonian museums are open in the initial days of the shutdown but visitors should check accessibility before planning visits.

The impacts vary by agency. For further details about specific agency operations during this period, Bost advised visiting the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website.

"I am committed to keeping you informed about how the shutdown may affect your government services, and I will continue to do so throughout the process," Bost said.

He explained that Congress is required to pass annual appropriations measures by October 1st each year to fund federal agencies. On September 19th, Bost voted for a measure extending current federal funding through November 21st; however, although it passed in the House of Representatives as a "clean, straightforward extension," it did not pass in the Senate. As a result, many federal agencies lack authority to operate unless deemed essential by law.

Bost listed several services expected to continue during the shutdown: Social Security payments (including SSI benefits), Medicare and Medicaid benefits, VA medical care and benefits (though some regional offices may be closed), SNAP benefits (with possible disruptions if prolonged), disability payments, mail delivery, federal law enforcement and military operations, air travel services, retirement payments for federal employees, student aid programs like Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans, visits to Smithsonian Museums (until at least October 6), and visa/passport services—though longer wait times may occur.

Federal employees affected by agency closures will either be furloughed or required to work without pay; under law they are entitled to back pay once government reopens. Additional guidance is available from sources such as OPM Operating Status updates and department-specific websites including www.dhs.gov and www.va.gov.

Mike Bost has represented Illinois's 12th congressional district since defeating William L. Enyart in 2014 with over half of votes cast. In subsequent elections he maintained his seat against challengers including Charles Baricevic in 2016 (54.3% vs 39.7%), Raymond Lenzi in 2020 (60.4% vs 39.7%), Brendan Kelly in 2018 (51.6% vs 45.4%), and Chip Markel in 2022 where he won with approximately three-quarters of total votes cast.

https://bost.house.gov/2025/10/government-shutdown-resources