Summary
The U.S. government began a shutdown after the Senate did not pass a funding bill. Many federal services are affected, but the U.S. Postal Service will continue normal operations because it is not funded by tax dollars.
Key Facts
- The government shutdown began because the Senate did not pass a funding bill by the deadline.
- During a shutdown, essential services like air traffic control and military operations continue.
- Many federal employees are furloughed or work without pay during a shutdown.
- Public services like national parks and passport processing can face disruptions.
- Programs funded by mandatory spending, like Social Security, are not affected.
- The U.S. Postal Service will operate normally as it is independently funded by sales.
- The shutdown is partly due to disagreements over healthcare funding in Congress.
