A government shutdown means that non-essential functions and operations of the federal government are temporarily stopped due to the failure of Congress to approve funding for the government. This occurs when lawmakers cannot agree on a budget or funding legislation by the deadline, forcing the government to halt activities that do not have mandatory or other alternative funding. During a shutdown:
- Essential services related to national security, public safety, healthcare for veterans, Medicare, air traffic control, and law enforcement continue to operate.
- Non-essential employees are typically furloughed (temporarily laid off) without pay, although they usually receive back pay once the shutdown ends under current law.
- Public services like national parks, museums, and some administrative functions are closed or suspended.
- Social Security payments continue as they are considered mandatory spending.
- The shutdown can lead to significant disruptions in government services, employee pay interruptions, and economic impacts.
This situation happens when political disagreements prevent the passage of temporary or full funding, and it lasts until an agreement is reached and funding is restored.
