what does it mean if the government is shut down

A government shutdown means that the federal government stops all non- essential functions because Congress has failed to pass funding for government operations, and the president has not signed the funding into law. During this time, many federal agencies must cease operations unless they have other sources of funding or are classified as essential. Essential activities typically involve public safety, national security, and protection of life and property, such as military operations, air traffic control, and law enforcement. Non-essential employees are usually furloughed, meaning they are put on temporary unpaid leave, although they may be compensated retroactively once the shutdown ends. This situation lasts until Congress approves a funding bill and the president signs it into law, restoring full government activity.