why do government shutdowns happen

Government shutdowns happen when there is a failure to pass funding legislation to finance the federal government for the upcoming fiscal year or a temporary funding bill. This failure leads to a lapse in government funding, preventing certain government operations from continuing. The shutdown occurs as Congress and the President are unable to agree on a budget or appropriations bill, often due to political disagreements over spending priorities or policy issues. During a shutdown, non-essential government services stop, and many federal workers are furloughed (temporarily laid off), while essential employees continue working but may not receive pay until the shutdown ends. Shutdowns disrupt many services, reduce government revenue, and can negatively impact economic growth.