CONGRESSMAN MOYLAN ANNOUNCES LOCAL RELIEF OPTIONS FOR FURLOUGHED FEDERAL WORKERS

October 11, 2025
Press Release

(Hagåtña, Guam) As the federal shutdown stretches into another week, Congressman James C. Moylan is urging compassion, clarity, and coordination for Guam’s families, workers, and retirees. “We know what people are asking right now—‘Will I get paid? Will I still have a job? How do I keep the lights on?’ These are real concerns, and our office is fighting every day to make sure no one faces hardship alone.” 

While paychecks may be paused, bills are not—and our office is actively working to ease the burden. As part of our One Guam approach, we’ve proactively engaged key agencies—including the Guam Department of Labor and major service providers—to identify and elevate relief options for affected workers. While we await official responses from several agencies, here’s what we’ve confirmed or anticipate based on prior emergency protocols: 

LOCAL RELIEF OPTIONS 

  • Utilities (Guam Power Authority & Guam Waterworks Authority): We’ve reached out to both agencies and are awaiting official responses. Based on past shutdowns and emergency protocols, we anticipate they may offer hardship accommodations such as payment deferments, waived late fees, or temporary suspension of disconnections. Customers should contact providers directly and provide furlough documentation to explore available options.
  • Mortgage Relief (Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac): Servicers may offer forbearance, flexible payment plans, and employment verification waivers. Borrowers must request relief from their mortgage servicer.
  • Renters & Landlords: Property managers are encouraged to offer grace periods and flexible payment plans. Our office can help connect tenants with available resources, clarify housing-related guidance, and elevate urgent cases to the appropriate agencies when needed.
  • Federally Subsidized Housing: Section 8 and HUD-VASH vouchers remain active. Tenants must still pay their portion of rent. No automatic eviction pause—tenants should request flexibility from landlords.
  • Cellular Providers: Most major providers—including GTA, Docomo Pacific, and IT&E—are offering payment extensions or agreements based on customer standing. These programs vary, so it’s best to contact your provider directly to discuss eligibility and avoid service disruptions. 

FEDERAL GUIDANCE 

  • Backpay: Most federal employees are legally guaranteed retroactive pay once the shutdown ends. Contractors may not be covered—if you’ve been formally informed that you will not receive backpay, please contact our office immediately.
  • Employment Status: Furloughs are temporary suspensions due to funding lapses—not terminations. If you’re unsure about your status, we can help interpret your agency’s notice. 

HOW TO GET HELP 

If you are a federal employee, contractor, or household affected by the shutdown: 

“This shutdown is not your fault,” Congressman Moylan said. “You deserve clarity, compassion, and action. We’re here to make sure you’re protected—until your paycheck returns, and long after.”