The Government Shutdown Is Over: But the Impact on Military Families Isn’t
After 43 days, the federal government officially reopened. While this news brings long-awaited relief to millions of Americans, for our nation’s military families, the end of the shutdown marks the beginning of a new chapter focused on recovery, reimbursement, and rebuilding stability.
During the shutdown, military families once again carried the weight of uncertainty. From delayed paychecks to stalled PCS moves and gaps in health care provider reimbursements, the ripple effects of government inaction were felt in every corner of our community. Families told us about postponed medical appointments, child care disruptions, and rising anxiety about how to make ends meet. Many were forced to rely on emergency relief organizations or dig into savings to cover basic needs.
Now that the government has reopened, immediate priorities include ensuring service members and federal civilians receive full back pay, processing TRICARE and PCS reimbursements, and restoring access to vital services that were paused. NMFA will continue monitoring how and when these systems come back online. We’ll also work to hold decision-makers accountable, ensuring that families are not left behind in the rush to restart operations.
But even as operations resume, the truth remains: the shutdown exposed how vulnerable military families can be when political gridlock interrupts pay and benefits. For too many, the last few weeks meant financial stress, emotional strain, and uncertainty about the future. These experiences reinforce what NMFA has long been saying: the strength of our military depends on the strength of its families.
Our team is already engaging with Congress and the Pentagon to ensure a smoother path forward. We urge policymakers to prioritize lasting solutions that protect military pay, streamline reimbursement processes, and strengthen safety nets that support families during times of crisis. Shutdowns should never be used as leverage when they jeopardize the readiness of those who serve.
We’re also calling on Congress to revisit legislation like the Pay Our Troops Act (H.R. 5401), which is designed to safeguard service members and their families during future funding lapses. This should never happen to military families again.
As we move forward, NMFA will continue to do what we’ve done since 1969: amplify your stories, advocate for your needs, and push for policies that reflect the value of your service and sacrifice.
If your family experienced ongoing challenges related to the shutdown, such as pay, PCS moves, health care claims, or other issues, we want to hear from you. Your stories help us make the strongest possible case to Congress for lasting change.
Together, we’ll work to ensure that military families are never again caught in the crossfire of political gridlock.
