why does government shutdown happen

A government shutdown happens primarily because Congress fails to pass the necessary funding bills to finance government operations before the start of a new fiscal year. Without approved funding, many federal government agencies must cease non-essential functions, furlough non-essential workers, and only keep essential personnel working, often without pay until the funding is restored. This failure to reach a budget agreement typically arises from political disagreements, such as conflicts over spending priorities or policy issues like healthcare or immigration. The shutdown lasts until Congress passes a funding bill that the President signs into law. In the U.S., this situation is governed by the Constitution and the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits government spending without legislative approval. Shutdowns disrupt various government services, causing furloughs and delays in non-essential government operations, while essential services like national security and emergency care continue. Shutdowns also can have economic impacts, reducing government revenue and economic growth during their duration.