what happens if the government shut down

If the government shuts down, many non-essential federal government operations cease due to lack of funding. Approximately 40% of the federal workforce, around 800,000 employees, would be furloughed and go without pay until the shutdown ends. Essential services such as air traffic control, national security, law enforcement, and certain health programs continue but with employees working without pay temporarily. Delays occur in areas like air travel security, passport processing, and federal loans. National parks and museums may close, and research and routine inspections in agencies like the FDA and EPA slow down or stop. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments continue, although some delays are possible. Federal contractors typically do not get paid during shutdowns, and paychecks for federal and military personnel are delayed but usually paid retroactively once the shutdown concludes. This disruption affects a wide array of government services, employees, and the general public until Congress resolves the funding impasse.