A government shutdown occurs when Congress is unable to pass appropriations bills that finance federal agencies and programs, such as the National Institutes of Health or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Funding typically runs through the end of each fiscal year, but if Congress can’t reach agreement on a funding bill by the deadline, agencies can be forced to shut down and stop all non-essential functions until new funding legislation is passed and signed by the President.
During a shutdown, many employees are furloughed, while those deemed “essential” must continue to work without pay (excepting military personnel, who are required to serve during any federal shutdown). In previous shutdowns, the lack of funds has prevented Social Security checks from being sent, delayed Medicare application processing, and halted Food and Drug Administration inspections. National parks close, and families are left struggling to afford basic necessities and to cover rent and other household expenses.
A bipartisan funding bill, called a Continuing Resolution, is currently working its way through the Senate and, if it is passed and the President signs it into law, would prevent a shutdown. But House Republicans are recalcitrant in their refusal to support the measure, which is supported by a number of Democrats. This recalcitrance is a reflection of the fundamental dysfunction in Washington, where rank-and-file members are being instructed to stand up to Trump by putting political ambitions ahead of their constituents’ concerns. A shutdown will harm Americans in countless ways, and it is completely avoidable.