Each year, the federal government’s agencies and programs rely on annual funding appropriations passed by Congress and signed into law. Without these bills, the agencies stop operating, and a “shutdown” begins. Only certain essential services continue, and employees deemed “essential” must work without pay during a shutdown.
For example, all VA medical facilities and clinics would remain operational during a shutdown, but their service delivery could be slower or interrupted the longer a shutdown lasts. Similarly, employment-related visa processing by the Department of Homeland Security would halt and all new applications for Pell Grants and student loans wouldn’t be processed, but current beneficiaries would still receive their benefits. The issuance of Social Security cards and benefit verifications would also halt, and customer service wait times for these services could increase dramatically.
During the 2018-2019 government shutdown, air traffic control operations were disrupted and incoming flights into LaGuardia were delayed or stopped entirely. Other essential services like law enforcement, border security, disaster relief, and power grid maintenance continue during a shutdown, but they may be subject to delays and disruptions.
Shutdowns have serious consequences for the public, who face service and program disruptions, as well as for federal employees who are furloughed or required to work without pay. They also damage the nation’s reputation among international allies and competitors, who see a domestic debate that’s more focused on political points than the country’s needs. It’s time for elected leaders in both parties to put Americans’ well-being first and stop using the threat of shutdown for their own short-term political gain.
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