A government shutdown is when most parts of the government stop working temporarily because Congress does not pass the necessary funding bills on time. During this time, only essential services like national security and public safety continue, while many other government operations and services pause until funding is approved.
Explanation in Simple Terms
- The government needs money approved by Congress each year to run its agencies and programs.
- If Congress doesn't agree on the budget or the president doesn't sign it, many government departments must stop non-essential work.
- Essential services related to safety and health keep running.
- Many government workers are temporarily sent home without pay until the government reopens.
This usually happens at the start of the fiscal year (October 1) if no budget is passed, causing delays and disruptions in services for the public.
