how does government shutdown affect me

A government shutdown affects individuals primarily by disrupting federal services and causing delays in various daily activities, especially those relying on government functions. Key ways it may impact people include travel delays due to reduced air traffic control staffing, longer lines at airport security, delayed passport processing, and closures or limited access to national parks. Federal workers face furloughs without pay during the shutdown, although essential services like law enforcement and some medical staff continue working without immediate pay. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid services generally continue but may experience slower processing times. Additionally, programs supporting low-income families, such as WIC and SNAP, could be jeopardized if the shutdown is prolonged. The shutdown also introduces economic uncertainty, affecting government contractors and potentially delaying federal aid and benefits disbursement to citizens.