A government shutdown means that the legislative branch has failed to pass the necessary funding bills to finance the operations of the executive branch by the deadline, leading to a halt in some or all government activities. During a shutdown, federal agencies must discontinue non-essential functions and furlough non-essential workers, while essential services related to safety and protection of life and property continue to operate. This can include military operations, law enforcement, air traffic control, and emergency medical care. Shutdowns occur due to political impasses over budget appropriations and disrupt many government services, affecting federal employees and the public until new funding legislation is passed and signed into law.
Key Points on Government Shutdowns:
- Shutdowns happen when Congress does not pass funding bills or continuing resolutions before the fiscal year begins.
- Essential services continue to operate, but non-essential services and activities cease.
- Federal employees classified as non-essential are furloughed without pay, while essential employees work, often without immediate pay.
- Shutdowns can close national parks, delay government processing, and reduce economic growth.
- Historically, shutdowns in the US have lasted from a few hours to over a month, with the longest being 35 days in 2018-2019.
- Shutdowns can affect millions of citizens and disrupt various government functions until resolved.
