COLUMBUS, OH — The Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) is reassuring veterans and their families that state-level support remains fully operational despite the ongoing federal government shutdown.
In a message shared this week, ODVS emphasized that while federal operations at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are partially suspended, Ohio’s veteran programs — including the County Veterans Service Offices (CVSOs) — continue to operate normally.
“ODVS is a state agency and therefore we are fully operational and here to assist the veteran community as before through various programs and avenues to key resources,” the department stated.
A full list of Ohio’s 88 county veterans offices is available at OhioVets.gov.
VA Services Affected by the Shutdown
According to an official statement from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, several non-critical programs have been paused due to the lapse in federal appropriations. The following services are temporarily suspended:
- Veteran career counseling and transition assistance programs
- GI Bill Hotline
- Regional VA benefits offices
- Public affairs and outreach operations
- Permanent placement of headstones and cemetery maintenance
- Processing of pre-need burial applications
- Printing of presidential memorial certificates
VA Services Continuing During Shutdown
Many essential services will continue without interruption, including:
- Veteran health care — All VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, and Vet Centers remain open.
- Benefits processing and delivery — Compensation, pension, education, and housing benefits will continue.
- Burials at national cemeteries — While maintenance is limited, burial services and headstone applications are still being processed.
- Veterans Crisis Line and Contact Centers — The 24/7 helpline remains active at 988 (Press 1) or 1-800-MyVA411.
- Board of Veterans’ Appeals — Case reviews and decisions will continue.
Veterans are encouraged to visit the VA’s contingency planning page for a full list of affected and active services.
The VA noted it remains committed to “providing quality, consistent care and services to Veterans and their families,” even amid funding challenges.
