how can the government shut down

The government can shut down when the legislative branch, specifically Congress, fails to pass key funding or appropriations bills to finance government operations for the upcoming fiscal period. Without approved funding legislation signed by the President, government agencies and departments must halt many of their operations, furlough non-essential workers, and continue only essential services such as national security and emergency medical care. The shutdown persists until Congress passes and the President signs the necessary appropriations bills to restore funding and operations. This process usually involves political negotiations and agreements between the major parties in Congress and the President. The President cannot unilaterally end a government shutdown; it requires legislative approval and presidential signature of funding bills.