If the government shuts down due to a lapse in funding, many non-essential federal government services and programs would cease operations until new funding legislation is passed. Essential services related to national security, public safety, and mandatory programs like Social Security and Medicare would continue to function. However, many federal employees would be furloughed without pay during the shutdown, though they typically receive back pay once the government reopens. Federal contractors may lose pay entirely. Government shutdowns cause disruptions including the closure of national parks and museums, suspension of routine food safety inspections, delays in processing passports, visas, loans, and permits, and increased wait times in various services. Air travel would continue but could face disruptions due to essential staff working without pay and potential absences. Other affected areas include slowed or halted new mortgage insurance, housing loans, and aid programs like WIC and SNAP during prolonged shutdowns. The Food and Drug Administration and Environmental Protection Agency would delay inspections and cleanup activities. Court hearings may be canceled or delayed, and some federal offices could close or operate with limited staff. The economic impact can be significant, including lost productivity and reduced GDP growth during shutdowns. Federal employees and some contractors would face missed or delayed paychecks, with the first missed paychecks occurring around 10 days after the shutdown begins. Lawmakers generally try to avoid shutdowns through continuing resolutions or full appropriations bills. This summary explains the broad consequences of a government shutdown on services, employees, and the economy.
