A US government shutdown means that Congress has failed to pass the necessary funding bills to finance government operations for the new fiscal year or a temporary funding measure. As a result, many federal government activities and services stop, non-essential government employees are furloughed (placed on unpaid leave), and only essential services related to protecting human life and property continue to operate, often without pay until the shutdown ends. This shutdown causes disruptions in government services, closures of national parks, travel delays, and can negatively impact the economy. Essential programs like Social Security and Medicare payments continue, but many administrative functions related to benefits may halt. Shutdowns have occurred since 1980 in the US and usually end once Congress passes a budget or funding resolution.

Key Points about a US Government Shutdown

• It occurs due to failure to pass appropriations bills to fund government operations.
• Results in furloughing non-essential federal workers; essential workers remain on duty.
• Services like national parks and many administrative functions stop or slow down.
• Essential safety, security, and health services continue, but often without immediate pay.
• Has significant economic impacts and disrupts many government programs.
• Is a politically charged event resulting from budgetary and policy disagreements in Congress.

This shutdown reflects a funding gap causing many government functions to pause until legislative resolution is achieved.