When the US government shuts down, it means that Congress has failed to pass appropriations or funding legislation to finance government operations, causing all non-essential government functions to freeze until funding is approved. Essential services related to national security, safety, and life protection continue operating, but many federal employees are furloughed (temporarily laid off) and do not receive pay until funding is restored. This can lead to the closure of national parks, delays in immigration hearings, disruptions in federal loans, and suspended services that require federal funding. Some government employees continue working without pay during the shutdown, but they are guaranteed back pay once the government reopens. The shutdown affects millions of federal workers and various public services, depending on what is classified as essential or non-essential by each agency.
What Keeps Operating
- Military personnel on active duty.
- Federal law enforcement like FBI and CIA.
- Air traffic controllers and TSA agents.
- Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments.
- US Postal Service delivery.
What Stops or Is Limited
- Non-essential federal employees are furloughed.
- National parks and museums may close.
- Federal loans and permits may be delayed or halted.
- Contract workers are generally not paid during shutdowns.
The shutdown continues until Congress passes the necessary funding bills and the president signs them into law. Past shutdowns have caused significant economic and service disruptions costing billions.
