U.S. Senate Advances Funding Legislation to End Government Shutdown

The ongoing federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2023, may soon come to an end following a successful procedural vote in the U.S. Senate. This development has generated a wave of hope among Guam residents who have been significantly affected by the shutdown. While the Senate vote marks progress, further steps remain before the government can officially reopen, as any U.S. senator can delay the deal for several days, and it must also be passed by the House of Representatives.

Delegate James Moylan expressed optimism over the Senate’s vote, describing it as a critical step toward reopening the government and restoring stability for millions of families, including those on Guam. The agreement, reached between eight Democratic senators, their Republican colleagues, and the White House, aims to facilitate the government’s reopening in exchange for a future vote on extending enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies.

Acting Governor Josh Tenorio welcomed the news, highlighting the potential restoration of vital safety-net programs just as families begin to prepare for the holiday season. Tenorio stated, “Across the nation and here at home, families have faced weeks of anxiety as the federal government shut down and critical programs were put on hold. If this measure passes as expected, many of our people will finally see a return to normalcy—federal workers will receive their pay, safety-net benefits will resume, and families will regain the stability they deserve.”

Uncertainty Surrounds SNAP Funding for Guam

Despite the progress in the Senate, uncertainty remains regarding federal funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Guam. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued conflicting guidance to states and territories about SNAP, creating confusion across the nation. As of Monday, questions directed to the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services about SNAP funding went unanswered.

Moylan emphasized that SNAP and the Women, Infant and Children (WIC) program are essential lifelines for many residents. He remarked, “For Guam, this vote means hope for federal workers who’ve gone weeks without pay and for vulnerable families who rely on SNAP and WIC to feed their children.”

Currently, SNAP recipients in Guam have received about half of their usual benefits through a locally funded initiative known as the General Food Assistance Benefits. The local government has also provided WIC benefits for October and November. Tenorio acknowledged that the administration did not wait for Washington to act, stating, “When the federal government was unable to act, we did what Guam has always done: take care of our neighbors in need.”

Future Implications and Local Resilience

If the Senate’s funding measure is enacted, Guam will begin transitioning back to federal program operations. This transition would significantly ease the pressure on local funds that have been utilized to sustain services during the shutdown. Tenorio pointed out that this federal action would reinforce the local safety net rather than replace it. He expressed gratitude for the potential restoration of stability, dignity, and peace of mind for the people of Guam.

While this development is promising, Tenorio cautioned that the compromise only funds the federal government through January 30, 2026. He noted that while some programs may receive funding for the remainder of the fiscal year, others could again face uncertainty early next year if Congress does not secure a long-term agreement.

“This is not the end of our vigilance,” Tenorio stated. “We must stay prepared. Our administration will continue monitoring developments closely and remain ready to help our people wherever possible.” He encouraged residents to remain patient as federal agencies begin reopening and to stay connected to local support networks until all federal operations are fully restored.

As the holiday season approaches, Tenorio expressed a desire for residents to feel hopeful. “Guam’s strength is our unity, and together, we will continue to protect each other, no matter what challenges come from Washington.”