A government shutdown occurs when the government fails to pass a funding bill to finance its operations, resulting in a temporary halt of all non-essential federal government services and activities. Essential services related to national security, public safety, and critical operations continue working, but many employees are furloughed (temporarily laid off) and do not receive pay until funding is restored. During a shutdown, services like social security, Medicare, air traffic control, and the military remain operational, but many public services, national parks, museums, and federal agencies stop functioning until an agreement on funding is reached. Key points about a government shutdown:
- It happens when Congress fails to approve a spending bill.
- Non-essential government functions stop, and non-essential employees are furloughed without pay.
- Essential workers (e.g., military, law enforcement, air traffic controllers) continue working but may face delayed pay.
- Some services like social security, veterans' health care, and mail delivery continue.
- Shutdowns disrupt many public services and can cost billions due to lost productivity and required back pay.
- Shutdowns reflect political disagreements, often over budget priorities, such as healthcare or funding levels.
This is a temporary situation that lasts until Congress passes a funding bill and the President signs it into law, restoring government operations and employee pay.
