If Congress doesn’t approve funding by Friday, the U.S. government will partially shut down, forcing hundreds of thousands of federal employees to stay home, while others considered essential will have to work without immediate pay. Here’s what happens during a shutdown:
Why Could the Government Shut Down?
Congress is responsible for passing funding bills for government operations. When they can’t finalize these on time, they often pass temporary funding to keep things running. The current funding expires on December 20, and lawmakers are struggling to agree on a new bill. If no deal is made by Friday, many government services will stop.
What Stays Open?
- Mail Delivery: The U.S. Postal Service runs on its own funds and will operate as usual.
- Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans’ Benefits: Payments will continue.
- Military: Military personnel will keep working, but many civilian employees at the Pentagon will be furloughed.
- Law Enforcement: Agencies like the FBI, Secret Service, and Border Patrol will continue working.
What Shuts Down?
- National Parks: Most parks and monuments will close, though some states may use their funds to keep them open.
- Federal Courts: Courts can run for a while using existing funds but may slow down later.
- Scientific Research: NASA and other agencies will pause many projects, though critical work like weather forecasting will continue.
- Food Inspections: Some FDA inspections may be delayed.
- Education and Housing Aid: Programs for low-income families and student loan assistance could face disruptions if the shutdown drags on.
- Small Business Loans: New loans won’t be issued.
- Workplace Safety: Inspections and investigations into labor disputes will be limited.
Other Impacts:
- Travel: Air traffic controllers and airport security will work, but staffing issues could cause delays.
- Economic Data: Reports like employment and inflation statistics will be delayed.
- White House Operations: Non-essential staff will be furloughed, but the president will still be paid.
In short, a government shutdown disrupts many services, delays payments, and impacts federal employees and programs across the board.