Summary
If Congress does not pass new funding by midnight on September 30, the U.S. government will shut down on October 1. This would cause many government services to stop temporarily, although essential services like Social Security payments and air travel would continue. Some services may be delayed, but benefits like VA payments will proceed as usual.
Key Facts
- A government shutdown will start on October 1 if Congress doesn't pass new funding.
- Congress needs to pass a short-term funding measure called a continuing resolution.
- Essential workers like air traffic controllers will work without pay during a shutdown.
- Social Security and SNAP benefit payments will continue despite the shutdown.
- VA benefits will continue, but some VA services may be delayed.
- National parks and museums might close if a shutdown occurs.
- Past shutdowns have interrupted federal food safety inspections and small business loans.
