A government shutdown means that the federal government stops all non- essential functions because Congress has not passed funding legislation that the president signs. This results in many government services and operations being frozen, non-essential federal employees being furloughed (sent home without pay), and many federal agencies closing or drastically reducing their services until funding is restored. Essential services related to public safety, national security, and mandatory programs like Social Security and Medicare continue to operate during a shutdown.
What Happens During a Government Shutdown
- Many federal services, including national parks, museums, and some administrative functions, close or become inaccessible.
- Federal employees in non-essential roles are furloughed and not paid during the shutdown.
- Essential agencies such as the FBI, CIA, air traffic control, border security, and military remain operational, though some employees may not receive pay until the shutdown ends.
- Mandatory spending programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans’ health care continue as these are funded differently from discretionary spending.
- Services that rely on user fees, such as certain immigration services, may also continue.
Causes and Process
A shutdown happens primarily when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills or a temporary continuing resolution to fund government operations by the start of the fiscal year (October 1). Since the Antideficiency Act of 1884 and subsequent interpretations, federal agencies must cease operations if there is no legal authorization to spend funds.
Impact
Shutdowns cause disruption in many aspects of government functioning, negatively affecting federal employees’ paychecks, public services, and sometimes the broader economy by reducing government activity. However, critical services related to safety and national security remain protected.
This explanation reflects the situation as of the current 2025 government shutdown and general historical understanding of shutdown processes in the U.S. federal government.
