what does it mean when the goverment shuts down

When the government shuts down, it means that Congress has failed to approve the budget or temporary funding to finance federal government operations for the upcoming fiscal year. As a result, all non-essential government functions and services are frozen or stopped. This causes many federal agencies to close or significantly reduce their activities, and non-essential federal employees are furloughed, meaning they cannot go to work and do not get paid during the shutdown period. Essential services related to public safety and critical operations, such as the FBI, CIA, air traffic control, border security, and healthcare for veterans, continue to operate. Social Security payments typically continue as well. However, many other services, including national parks, museums, and some administrative functions, are halted or delayed. The shutdown can disrupt various aspects of daily life, reduce government revenue, and negatively impact economic growth until funding is restored and normal operations resume.