why does the government shutdown

A government shutdown happens when Congress fails to pass the necessary funding legislation before the start of the new fiscal year. Without appropriations bills or temporary funding measures approved by Congress and signed by the President, federal agencies must halt non-essential functions, furlough many workers, and operate only critical services protecting human life and property. This funding impasse is often caused by political disagreements between parties, such as disputes over policy issues or spending priorities. In the United States, shutdowns have occurred since 1980 following a legal interpretation of the Antideficiency Act, which prohibits federal spending without appropriations. Shutdowns disrupt many government services, including closing national parks, delaying tax refunds, and reducing economic growth. Essential services like the FBI, air traffic control, and social security payments usually continue operating during a shutdown. The most recent shutdowns have been triggered by divisive political issues like healthcare and border security funding.