Survivors of Abuse Need Services and Safety Nets, Not Shutdowns and Scapegoating

We reject claims that the government shutdown is related to funding free health care for undocumented immigrants

October 1, 2025 — The federal government shutdown threatens the life and safety of survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and other crimes all across the country.  

Domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking victims in every state rely on local programs including shelters, rape crisis centers, anti-trafficking programs, and child advocacy centers for lifesaving support. Without federal funding, staffing and critical services are at risk. Even a short funding delay could result in reduced services, layoffs, and eventually program closures.

Funding services and safety-net programs for survivors should not be the collateral damage of political gamesmanship. Access to local services and safety-net programs like Medicaid can mean the difference between escaping abuse or remaining stuck in a cycle of violence. Congress and the Administration must protect these programs to help survivors get back on their feet and gain stability and safety after victimization. 

We adamantly reject the false narrative that the government shutdown has anything to do with funding free health care for undocumented immigrants. Undocumented immigrants do not have access to federal benefits, and no proposed budget changes that.  

Earlier this year, Congress passed a budget reconciliation bill (H.R. 1 or “The Big Beautiful Bill Act”) that cruelly cut off eligible, tax paying, immigrant survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, as well as refugees fleeing gender-based violence in war zones, from critical, life-saving benefits. Programs have already started to see the devastating impact of this legislation on the lives of the survivors we serve.

To ensure that all survivors get the lifesaving support that they need to rebuild their lives free from violence requires the federal government to remain open and functional and for Congress to ensure all eligible immigrant survivors can access programs and services dedicated to safety and justice.

As we recognize the first day of Domestic Violence Awareness month, the Alliance for Immigrant Survivors urges Congress and the Administration to work together toward a bipartisan solution that will ensure lifesaving services for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence without compromising safety net supports. All survivors need both services and health care to heal and find safety.