what does shutting down the government mean

Shutting down the government means that the federal government stops all non- essential operations and services because Congress fails to pass the necessary funding bills. This causes many government agencies to halt activities, furlough non-essential workers, and only keep critical functions running, such as national security, air traffic control, and emergency services. Essential employees continue working but may not get paid until the government reopens. Programs like Social Security and Medicare generally continue, but some services like national parks, immigration hearings, and certain federal loans may be suspended during the shutdown. The shutdown lasts until Congress passes and the president signs a funding bill to restore government operations.