what does it mean when there is a government shutdown

A government shutdown happens when the government stops most nonessential operations and services because funding is not approved. This usually occurs when Congress fails to pass appropriations bills or the president refuses to sign them, causing a funding gap. Essential services like national security, public safety, and healthcare (for veterans and Medicare recipients) continue to operate, but many federal employees are furloughed and nonessential services are paused until funding is restored. During a shutdown, federal agencies cannot spend money beyond approved limits, leading to partial or full closure of government functions depending on which agencies are funded. Employees deemed essential work without pay until the shutdown ends, while others are temporarily laid off but will receive back pay later.