A government shutdown means that the federal government stops all non- essential functions because Congress has failed to pass funding legislation approved by the president. During a shutdown, many government operations freeze, non-essential employees are furloughed (sent home without pay), and services like national parks, some social programs, and agencies dependent on annual appropriations halt temporarily until funding is restored. Essential services related to national security, public safety, and critical functions (like the FBI, air traffic control, and military) continue to operate but may do so without immediate pay for their employees. Once the government reopens, most furloughed workers receive back pay. Shutdowns occur due to political disagreements on budget or funding proposals, as happened with the recent U.S. government shutdown starting October 1, 2025.
