Summary
The U.S. government has shut down because lawmakers could not agree on a budget. This will affect many services and people, including unpaid federal workers, air travel, and national parks. Essential workers must work without pay, while others are on leave, and some public services will face disruptions.
Key Facts
- The shutdown happened because Republicans and Democrats could not agree on a government budget.
- About 40% of federal workers, or around 800,000 people, will not receive pay and many are on unpaid leave.
- Air traffic controllers and TSA workers must work without pay, possibly leading to airport delays.
- National parks may be left open without staff, causing concerns about vandalism and damage.
- The Smithsonian museums will stay open using leftover funds, but some services like zoo webcams will close.
- Some government agency workers, like those at health research agencies, are on leave, impacting ongoing projects.
- Contractors working for federal agencies will not receive backpay for missed work during the shutdown.
