what is a goverment shutdown

A government shutdown occurs when the legislative branch does not pass key bills which fund or authorize the operations of the executive branch, resulting in the cessation of some or all operations of a government. This typically happens when Congress fails to pass the 12 annual appropriation bills, leading federal agencies to cease all non-essential functions until Congress acts. The shutdown can be averted briefly if a short-term funding bill is passed, but if lawmakers fail to enact all or some of the appropriation bills, many government operations grind to a halt, resulting in a full or partial government shutdown until Congress acts. During a shutdown, federal agencies must discontinue all non-essential discretionary functions until new funding legislation is passed and signed into law, leading to the temporary closure or reduced operation of non-essential government services. Essential services, many of which are related to public safety, continue to operate, while some federal employees may be furloughed or temporarily laid off, and others continue to work without pay. Shutdowns can be disruptive, leading to delays in processing applications for passports, small business loans, or government benefits, shuttered visitor centers and bathrooms at national parks, fewer food-safety inspections, and various inconveniences. It is important to note that government shutdowns are specific to the United States and are nearly impossible in other forms of government.