The Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, Pablo José Hernández, has released a statement following the Senate’s progress on a legislative framework to approve five pending appropriations bills for the 2026 fiscal year. The Senate also moved forward with a temporary measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security as negotiations continue.
“It is deeply regrettable that the United States faces a partial federal government shutdown. Congress has an obligation to act urgently to prevent the shutdown and protect the people,” Hernández said.
He emphasized that essential programs will not be affected by the current situation. “I want to be clear that essential programs such as PAN/NAP, WIC, Medicare, and Social Security will continue. I will be closely monitoring the situation and communicating any updates that affect Puerto Rico while Congress fulfills its responsibility,” he added.
