Congressman Mike Bost

HOUSE PASSES BOST BILL TO PROTECT VETERANS' SECOND AMENDMENT RIGHTS

Thu, 141 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauds the passage of H.R. 1041, the Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. This legislation introduced by Bost prevents the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from stripping veterans of their Second Amendment rights solely because they require financial assistance in managing their benefits.

“Tonight the House passed my Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act. No veteran should lose their Second Amendment rights simply because they need help managing their finances, but that is exactly what's been happening,” Chairman Bost said. “Without a judge's ruling or any finding that a veteran is a danger to anyone, a VA bureaucrat could report them to the FBI's background check system and strip them of their right to bear arms. That is not how we treat the men and women who defended our Constitution. This bill puts a permanent end to that injustice, and as a Marine, proud gun owner, and Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I could not be more proud to have led the charge for its passage.”

The Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act prevents the VA from sending a veteran’s information to the DOJ background check system based only on a fiduciary determination. It also requires the VA to notify the Attorney General when past referrals were made on that basis alone.

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BOST ANNOUNCES CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL OF $1.6 BILLION INVESTMENT FOR ST. LOUIS VA HOSPITAL

Thu, 141 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that Congress has approved a Department of Veterans Affairs budget request of $1.6 billion to modernize the John Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis. The VA funding bill, which is expected to be signed into law by President Trump, provides for construction of a new bed tower, mental health and substance abuse clinic, administrative facilities, parking garages, and central utility plant.

"Our veterans deserve world-class care, and that means making sure the facilities serving them are up to the task," said Bost. "The John Cochran Division is a critical lifeline for veterans in Metro East Illinois and beyond. This investment would go a long way toward making sure it can continue to serve them for decades to come. As Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I will do everything I can to make sure Congress follows through.”

The John Cochran Division serves thousands of veterans across the Metro East region of Southern Illinois and the greater St. Louis region. Initial funding for design, construction and land acquisition was authorized and appropriated in 2010. This request will help address funding gaps created when previous budget requests were not authorized or appropriated.

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BOST CELEBRATES AMERICAN AIRLINES CONTRACT WITH MARION AIRPORT

Wed, 140 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has selected American Airlines to provide Essential Air Service at Veterans Airport of Southern Illinois in Marion. Beginning later this summer, the airline will operate 12 round trips per week between Marion and Chicago’s O'Hare International Airport using 65-passenger regional jets.

"Southern Illinois deserves reliable air service, and that's exactly what this development should deliver,” said Bost. "I've worked closely with airport officials, American Airlines, and the U.S. Department of Transportation in recent months to make this happen, and I couldn’t be more thrilled it came to fruition. With connections to O'Hare and access to American's full route network, I’d expect this to be a big boost for the region."

With the addition of one of the country’s largest national carriers, the new service will nearly double the current capacity.

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BOST INTRODUCES BILL HIGHLIGHTING FARMERS' MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS

Tue, 139 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) this week joined Rep. Kim Schrier (WA-8) in introducing a resolution to recognize the mental health crisis facing America's agricultural producers and workforce. According to the National Rural Health Association, the suicide rate among farmers is 3.5 times higher than the general population. This bill would designate May 29th of this year as “Mental Health Awareness in Agriculture Day,” recognizing the unique pressures faced by farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers across the country and raising awareness about the resources available to those in need.

"Our farmers are proud, salt of the Earth people, but they face tremendous pressures in a tough industry. The stress that comes with the profession is real, with a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than the general population,” said Bost. “Volatile markets, rising input costs, and unpredictable weather don't just threaten a family farm’s bottom line, they take a toll on mental health, too. This legislation is a step towards making sure they know that if they’re struggling, they don’t have to struggle alone."

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

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BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT TRUMP'S STATE OF THE UNION SPEECH

Tue, 55 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) issued the following statement in response to President Trump's State of the Union address to a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday evening:

"President Trump’s State of the Union address capped off a tremendous year of putting America first. Inflation has cooled, while the job market and stock market heat up. We’ve locked in historic tax relief for working families. Our borders are secured and crime rates are dropping by double digits in cities across the country. And after four years of Joe Biden’s failed foreign policy, America’s might is respected by the world again."

But this speech wasn’t just about what’s been accomplished; it was about what comes next. The President called on Congress to keep driving down costs, expand access to affordable healthcare and prescription drugs, reopen the doors to homeownership, and restore the people’s trust in our elections. Let’s turn the page to another successful year to come."

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BOST ISSUES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE SAVE AMERICA ACT

Wed, 42 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) issued the following statement upon House passage tonight of the SAVE America Act, legislation requiring voters to show a photo identification to cast a ballot:

“I voted for the SAVE America Act because the right to vote in American elections belongs to American citizens, period. This bill puts commonsense safeguards in place by requiring proof of citizenship to register, photo ID to cast a ballot, and real accountability to clean up voter rolls. If we can require an ID to board a plane, rent an apartment, drive a car, or buy prescription medication, we can require it to vote. The American people deserve elections they can trust, and I will never apologize for fighting to protect the integrity of their vote.”

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REPS. BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD REQUEST ANSWERS FROM ILLINOIS ELECTION BOARD ON VOTER ROLL INTEGRITY

Mon, 33 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Mary Miller (IL-15) led a letter with Congressman Mike Bost (IL-12) and Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) to the Illinois State Board of Elections requesting answers regarding the accuracy of the state’s voter rolls and its compliance with federal election law.

As Illinois prepares to begin early voting on February 5, the letter raised serious concerns about the state’s compliance with the National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) and the overall integrity of federal elections conducted in Illinois.

“For years, Illinois Democrats have refused to take even the most basic steps to secure our elections,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The state will not require voter ID, continues counting mail-in ballots long after Election Day, and has failed to implement a serious statewide program to clean up voter rolls. These failures undermine public confidence and raise legitimate questions about whether Illinois is complying with federal law.”

“Both parties can agree that the American people’s faith in our elections is at a dangerous low point. If we’re going to restore the public’s trust, it needs to happen long before Election Day,” said Congressman Bost. “That process begins with ensuring voter rolls are fully maintained and that every responsible effort is being made to remove ineligible voters. When certain jurisdictions report limited removal data – or even no data at all – to the Election Assistance Commission, it raises critical questions. We intend to get the answers our constituents rightly deserve.”

“For years, Illinois has failed to perform proper voter roll maintenance and implement commonsense election security practices such as requiring voter ID,” said Congressman LaHood. “The House Administration Committee’s request falls within its oversight role to ensure Illinois is following federal election laws. The State of Illinois has an obligation

to provide a transparent and complete response to this inquiry to ensure our elections are secure and strengthen Illinoisans faith in our state’s electoral process.”

Click here to read the letter.

Background:

This letter follows an oversight inquiry sent by the House Administration

Committee on January 22, 2026, which identified deficiencies in Illinois’ voter list maintenance practices, including counties reporting few or no voter removals in 2024 and widespread failures to provide required data to the Election Assistance Commission.

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BOST SECURES $7 MILLION FOR SOUTHERN ILLINOIS INFRASTRUCTURE AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PROJECTS

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) applauded House approval today of a transportation, health, and security funding package that provides a 3.8% pay raise for members of the military, invests in education and healthcare, and strengthens roads and infrastructure. The package includes $7 million Bost worked to secure for local infrastructure improvements in Clay, Crawford, Jackson, Jasper, and Washington counties.

“This legislation will make a big difference for hardworking Americans, with a pay hike for our troops, investment in rural hospitals, support for students, and $200 million to expand access to safe truck parking – a priority I’ve fought for years to accomplish. I’m proud to say that, on top of all these important victories, we were able to secure funding to improve our roadways, restore critical infrastructure, and strengthen emergency response in Southern Illinois. These are real results that people will see and feel.”

This funding package includes targeted investments secured by Rep. Bost for Illinois’ 12th District, including:

$2.2 million for the Village of Oblong for the South Range Street Replacement Project
$2 million for Washington County Emergency Management/OHS for the Emergency Operations Center
$1.3 million for the City of Flora for West Side Transportation Improvements
$900,000 for the City of Carbondale for Poplar Street Restoration
$540,000 for North Muddy Township to reconstruct N 600th Street

More information regarding these Community Project Funding requests can be found here.

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BOST BACKS RESPONSIBLE FUNDING PACKAGE TO SECURE THE NATION AND REIN IN SPENDING

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for a foreign operations and financial services funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that prioritizes national security and core government responsibilities. The legislation reduces spending by more than $9 billion compared to current stopgap funding and blocks the continuation of Biden-era priorities.

“When we’re talking about the security of the American people, we need to spend smartly and do what it takes to protect our interests in a dangerous world,” said Bost. “Today’s vote strengthens the focus on our national security while saving taxpayers more than $9 billion. We’re aligned with President Trump and not apologizing for putting America first.”

The funding package supports financial solvency and national security, holds federal agencies accountable, and ensures taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly. Key provisions of H.R. 7006 include:

Strengthening national security and supporting allies like Israel and Taiwan
Cracking down on fentanyl trafficking and stopping taxpayer-funded programs that encourage illegal immigration
Modernizing the IRS to better serve taxpayers while preventing political targeting and fraud
Maintaining long-standing protections to ensure taxpayer dollars are not used to fund abortions
Fully funds the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States to ensure it has the tools needed to investigate foreign investment by countries like China
Holding the United Nations accountable by cutting funding, tying assistance to reforms, and withholding taxpayer dollars until real reforms are made

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BOST SECURES FUNDING FOR SEVEN LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today applauded House passage of a commerce, energy, and interior funding bill for the remaining fiscal year that includes nearly $9 million for seven local infrastructure projects he championed in Congress. The community projects, spanning Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Monroe, Randolph, St. Clair, and Union counties, will improve water safety, sanitation, public safety, and emergency communications.

“This spending package provides the certainty needed to unleash America’s energy potential, invest in our military, and modernize our aging infrastructure,” said Bost. “I’m proud to say, it’s an impact that will be felt across Southern Illinois. I worked with local leaders on key priorities to strengthen the safety of our water systems and the effectiveness of emergency response services. All told, we’ve delivered nearly $9 million dollars to make our communities safer and healthier, and that makes a big difference for small communities.”

This funding package includes targeted investments secured by Rep. Bost for Illinois’ 12th District, including:

$2.1 million for Clinton County to upgrade a countywide emergency radio and communication system
$1.636 million for the Village of Maeystown for wastewater treatment facility improvements
$1.2 million for the Village of West Salem for water main replacement
$1 million for the City of Anna for sewer infiltration and inflow improvements
$1 million for the Robinson Palestine Water Commission for a new water treatment plant
$1 million for the City of Casey for sanitary sewer relining
$750,000 for the City of Sparta for a raw water transmission line project

More information regarding these Community Project Funding requests can be found here.

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BOST, BUDZINSKI INTRODUCE BILL TO MODERNIZE USDA LOAN PROGRAMS

Thu, 352 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12) and Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) introduced legislation Wednesday to remove outdated eligibility barriers that prevent modern family farms from accessing U.S. Department of Agriculture loan programs. The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility standards to better reflect the structure of today’s multi-generational, family-run farms, expanding access to operating, emergency, and real estate loans for producers in Southern Illinois and across the country.

“For too long, USDA loan rules have failed to keep up with the reality of modern farming,” said Bost. “Family farms shouldn’t be punished for choosing a path that helps them manage risk or plan for the next generation. Our legislation cuts through red tape, brings common sense back to USDA lending, and makes sure farmers who are doing things the right way aren’t locked out from the capital they need to keep their operations running.”

"While farming operations have changed drastically over time, our loan rules haven’t kept up," said Budzinski. "This legislation closes that gap by updating USDA loan rules and making sure small and multi-generational family farmers aren’t penalized for using responsible, modern business structures. Most importantly, it puts decisions back in farmers’ hands — giving them the freedom to set up their operations and land in ways that work best for their families without putting their existing FSA loans at risk."

"Farm Credit thanks Reps. Bost and Budzinski for introducing the USDA Loan Modernization Act," said Farm Credit Council President and CEO Christy Seyfer. "This small but meaningful update to FSA loan program eligibility requirements will allow the next generation of producers to utilize modern farm business structures while still accessing FSA loan programs. We look forward to working with Reps. Bost and Budzinski to ensure this important legislation is included in Farm Bill 2.0."

The USDA Loan Modernization Act updates eligibility requirements to allow producers with at least a 50 percent operational interest to qualify for loans and gives the Farm Service Agency greater flexibility to consider a range of family farm entities. The legislation is supported by groups including the Farm Credit Council, Illinois Corn Growers Association, Illinois Pork Producers Association, Farm Credit Illinois, Compeer, National Rural Lenders Association, Independent Community Bankers Association, Illinois Farm Bureau Federation, and the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.

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ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE NO PARDON FOR MADIGAN

Tue, 350 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Illinois’ U.S. House Republican delegation urged President Trump in a letter today to reject former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s request for a presidential pardon. U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Darin LaHood (IL-16), and Mary Miller (IL-15) expressed concerns that granting Madigan clemency following his sentencing to seven and a half years in prison for conspiracy, wire fraud, and bribery would undermine accountability and public trust.

“We write with a unified message as Republican Members of the United States House of Representatives for the State of Illinois to express our concerns regarding a request for a presidential pardon from former Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan,” the members said. “Illinois families and taxpayers have suffered for decades under entrenched corruption, and a pardon in this case would send a dangerous message that public officials can betray the public trust with impunity.

“The bribery and corruption scheme involved the misuse of state resources, including directing public utility contracts and payments to benefit private political allies. This was a deliberate, long-running pattern of abuse of public office.

“Granting clemency in this case would not only reward a lifetime of unethical behavior but also embolden other public officials to exploit their offices for personal gain. For these reasons, we respectfully urge you to deny any request for a presidential pardon from Michael Madigan. Denying his request is the best way to ensure Illinois residents know their leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity.”

The full letter to President Trump is available here.

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BOST BILL WOULD MODERNIZE ST. LOUIS VA MEDICAL CENTER

Mon, 349 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today introduced legislation to authorize funding for major upgrades at the St. Louis Veterans Affairs Medical Center–Jefferson Barracks. The bill authorizes up to $1.76 billion to expand care facilities and improve on-site infrastructure at the complex serving veterans from across the St. Louis region, including Metro East Illinois.

“Southern Illinois veterans have given so much for our country, and it’s our responsibility to make sure they get the quality care they have earned,” said Bost. “This funding will help modernize facilities at the St. Louis VAMC, expanding care, lodging, and other infrastructure to meet the needs of those who served. We’re working to improve the experience for everyone who relies on this medical center for the support they need.”

Bost’s legislation would fund improvements including:

New bed tower and clinical building expansion
New mental health and substance abuse clinic
Consolidated administrative and warehouse facility
Combined engineering/motor pool building
Central utility plant and parking garages
New water tower, gates, and guard houses
Utility upgrades and associated site work

Full bill text can be found here.

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BOST VOTES TO STRENGTHEN NATIONAL SECURITY, BOLSTER SUPPORT FOR TROOPS

Wed, 344 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026, legislation that strengthens America’s national defense, advances President Trump’s peace through strength agenda, and supports the men and women who serve our nation in uniform. The bill authorizes $900.6 billion for national defense programs, provides a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers, allocates $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements, secures our southern border, and ends the woke policies and DEI mandates that have distracted from military readiness.

“Supporting our troops and keeping America safe must always come before politics,” said Bost. “This national defense funding backs President Trump’s peace through strength approach, secures the southern border, reins in wasteful spending, and gets rid of the DEI and woke policies that have no place in our military. It ensures our servicemembers have the resources they need to do their jobs and I’m proud to support legislation that puts our national defense and our troops first.”

The Fiscal Year 2026 NDAA includes:

- $900.6 billion for national defense programs

- 3.8% pay raise for all servicemembers

- $6 million for Scott Air Force Base hangar improvements

- Over $1 billion to combat drug trafficking and support border security operations

- Fully funds National Guard and active-duty deployments to assist Border Patrol at the southwest border

- Permanently repeals of all Department of War DEI offices, programs, and training

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BOST DELIVERS ON LOCAL PUBLIC SAFETY, INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Thu, 317 Nov 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced the Continuing Resolution passed by Congress this week to reopen the government included $1.4 million for three local projects he championed in the House this year. Once signed into law by the President, funding will be allocated for water infrastructure improvements in Sesser and public safety projects in Mt. Vernon and Effingham.

“Part of good government is ensuring the health and safety of the people we represent,” said Bost. “These investments will help ensure families have access to safe drinking water, firefighters can train more effectively, and first responders have the modern facilities they need to protect lives and property. I’m proud to have worked with our local leaders to make these projects a reality.”

Projects funded in the package include:

Jefferson Fire Protection District – New Fire Station Headquarters and Regional Training Facility (Mt. Vernon, IL)

Award: $253,365

Funding will support construction of a state-of-the-art training facility designed to simulate real-world fire scenarios in modern residential structures. The facility will improve readiness and hands-on training for firefighters serving a 230-square-mile district across multiple towns and rural areas.

City of Sesser – Water System Improvements, Phase 3 (Sesser, IL)

Award: $471,000

The project will replace approximately 2,500 feet of aging cast iron and asbestos cement water mains with new PVC piping. This investment will enhance water safety, reliability, and overall system performance for residents.

Effingham Fire Department – Platform Ladder Truck Replacement Project (Effingham, IL)

Award: $700,000

Funding will help the department replace its 25-year-old platform ladder truck with a modern, state-of-the-art vehicle. The new truck will improve firefighting and rescue capabilities, particularly for vulnerable populations in multi-story residential and healthcare facilities.

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BOST VOTES TO END DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN

Wed, 316 Nov 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) voted today to end the longest government shutdown in history, reopening the government and funding essential services through January 30th. The Continuing Resolution, which passed the House on a near party-line vote, includes critical, year-long funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and military construction.

“Washington Democrats inflicted 43 days of pain on the American people just to score points with their political base. Their shutdown was senseless from the start, hurting working families, farmers, and veterans every step of the way," said Bost. "The Republican-led agreement passed by the House today restores access to critical services and provides some certainty at a time when our constituents desperately need it. The People’s House is open once again, and we owe it to them to act responsibly and not pull this country back over a cliff when funding expires in January.”

Key provisions in the Continuing Resolution include:

A full year’s funding for the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Agriculture, and military construction

$263.7 billion for mandatory veterans programs, including disability compensation, education benefits, and job training; additional funding ensures veterans healthcare and benefits will be fully funded

$107.5 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

$26.65 billion for agriculture and rural development programs

$19.7 billion for military construction projects

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ILLINOIS CONGRESSIONAL REPUBLICANS URGE END TO DEMOCRAT SHUTDOWN

Mon, 307 Nov 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the government shutdown reached its 30th day, U.S. Reps. Mike Bost (IL-12), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Darin LaHood (IL-16) urged Congressional Democrats to reopen the federal government before key programs, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, experience a lapse in funding at month’s end. Each week of the shutdown costs Illinois nearly $600 million in economic output, according to the President’s Council of Economic Advisors.

"We proudly voted with our Republican colleagues on September 19th to keep the government open and protect vital services for hardworking families. Senate Democrats have had over a month to do the same, but instead they have chosen to hold the government hostage and use our families as political pawns to extort $1.5 trillion in far-left partisan spending. Their reckless obstruction is damaging Illinois’ economy and putting nutrition benefits for Illinoisans at risk. It’s time for Senators Durbin and Duckworth to end the political games and vote to pass the clean Continuing Resolution sitting in the Senate,” said Reps. Bost, Miller, and LaHood.

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GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN RESOURCES

Wed, 274 Oct 2025 12:00:00 EST

As of October 1st, many federal operations have been shut down pending approval of a new government funding resolution. I appreciate Southern Illinois’ frustrations with the shutdown and the uncertainties it brings. 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 the shutdown, our offices in Washington, D.C., Mascoutah, Murphysboro, and Effingham remain open to assist you. While many federal agencies may have slower response times and minimal staffing, we can still submit requests and advocate on your behalf.

Our offices will not be able to process flag orders or arrange tours of the United States Capitol or other landmarks for constituents visiting Washington, D.C. While certain popular tourist sites, such as the Smithsonian museums, remain open in the early days of the shutdown, I encourage you to research online or contact the locations you’re interested in directly to confirm accessibility.

Impacts vary by agency. Visit the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) website and read below for more details.

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.

Sincerely,

Mike Bost

How did we get here?

The U.S. Congress must pass annual appropriations measures to fund federal government agencies by October 1st. On September 19th, I voted for a measure that passed the House of Representatives extending current federal funding until November 21st while we finish our work for the full fiscal year. This was a clean, straightforward extension of existing funding without extraneous policy.

Unfortunately, this proposal did not pass the Senate. This means many federal agencies do not currently have the authority to operate. Other programs deemed essential are allowed by law to continue.

What services will continue?

While the programs listed below will continue, the agencies responsible for administering them may see reduced workforces impacting operations. This is not a comprehensive list as we are continuing to gather information.

Social Security payments, including SSI benefits

Medicare and Medicaid benefits

VA medical care and benefits (although some regional offices may be closed)

SNAP benefits (although a prolonged shutdown could create disruptions)

Disability payments

Mail delivery

Federal law enforcement and military operations

Air travel

Federal employee retirement payments

Student aid such as Pell Grants and Federal Direct Student Loans

Visits to national Smithsonian Museums (until at least Monday, October 6)

Visa and passport services (although longer wait times are possible)

Resources for Federal Employees

As agencies shut down, federal employees will either be furloughed, or in some cases required to work without pay. Under federal law, employees are entitled to back pay upon the government reopening.

OPM Operating Status

OPM Shutdown Furlough Guidance

Thrift Savings Plan - Lapse in Appropriations

For agency-specific details, visit your department’s .gov site (e.g., www.dhs.gov, www.va.gov) and check their HR or shutdown resource pages.?

BOST, MILLER, LAHOOD INTRODUCE RESOLUTION HONORING ILLINOIS NATIVE CHARLIE KIRK

Thu, 254 Sep 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today joined U.S. Representatives Mary Miller (IL-15) and Darin LaHood (IL-18) in introducing a House resolution honoring the life and legacy of conservative leader and Illinois native Charlie Kirk.

“The murder of Charlie Kirk is a tragic reminder of just how far our nation has spiraled from the days of political discourse to the depths of political violence,” said Bost. “Charlie was a native son of Illinois whose faith, love of family, and commitment to thoughtfully engaging young people in the political process will leave a lasting mark. I am humbled to join my Illinois Republican colleagues in introducing a House resolution honoring Charlie’s life and legacy. My prayers go out to his wife, Erika, their two young children, and all who were impacted by this horrific attack.”

“Charlie Kirk was more than a Conservative trailblazer, he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a Martyr for Conservatism and Christianity,” said Miller. “As a proud Illinois native, his courage inspired millions to stand boldly for their faith, to love America, and defend freedom. As we honor his legacy with this Congressional Resolution, we lift Erika and their children in prayer and recommit ourselves to advance the values he boldly championed.”

"Charlie Kirk’s murder was a despicable act of political violence,” said LaHood. “He was a husband and father who did not deserve to die simply because of his political beliefs. Charlie dedicated his life to advocating for free speech, engaging in civil discourse, and investing in the next generation of Americans. I was proud to join my colleagues in the Illinois Delegation to introduce a resolution honoring his legacy and commitment to the bettering of America. My prayers remain with Charlie’s family and loved ones in light of this tragedy.”

Read the full resolution here.

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BOST ANNOUNCES $300,000 HHS GRANT TO SUPPORT LAWRENCE COUNTY OPIOID RESPONSE EFFORTS

Mon, 230 Aug 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) today announced a $300,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to Lawrence County. The funding, awarded through the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program, will be used to strengthen overdose response efforts in the region.

“Far too many families in Southern Illinois have felt the devastating impact of the opioid crisis,” said Bost. “This funding will help Lawrence County expand its response efforts, save lives, and provide much-needed resources to combat addiction in our communities.”

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