A government shutdown means that non-essential federal government functions stop operating because Congress has failed to pass legislation to fund the government. During a shutdown, federal agencies freeze many activities, and non-essential workers are furloughed (put on unpaid leave), while essential services tied to safety, security, and critical operations continue to function, often without immediate pay. Social Security, Medicare, veteran healthcare, and postal services usually keep operating despite a shutdown. The shutdown lasts until a funding agreement is reached, at which point services and pay are typically restored, sometimes retroactively.
What triggers a government shutdown?
A shutdown happens when Congress does not pass the necessary appropriations or stopgap funding bills by the start of the new fiscal year (October 1 in the US), causing a lapse in funding for government operations.
What happens during a shutdown?
- Non-essential government agencies and programs close temporarily.
- Hundreds of thousands of federal employees are furloughed and do not get paid until the shutdown ends.
- Essential personnel such as military members, law enforcement, air traffic controllers, and emergency responders remain on duty but might work without immediate pay.
- Social programs funded by mandatory spending like Social Security and Medicare continue, though some administrative processes might be slowed.
Examples and context
The US has experienced several shutdowns historically, the longest in recent times lasting 35 days during 2018-2019. Shutdowns negatively impact government services, economic growth, and public trust in politics.
This explanation reflects the current 2025 shutdown ongoing since October 1st, caused by political disagreements over a funding bill, particularly healthcare provisions, with Republicans holding Congress but lacking enough votes to pass their bill and Democrats opposing on healthcare grounds.
