The US government has officially shut down after the Senate blocked a Republican-backed funding bill that aimed to extend spending through November 21. The shutdown came into effect at 9:30 am IST, following a deadlock in Washington. President Donald Trump had earlier warned that a shutdown was “probably likely,” blaming Democrats for the funding gap.
Impact on Federal Workers
Nearly 4 million federal employees now face uncertainty over their pay. Around 2 million active-duty troops and National Guard members could be required to serve without pay, while hundreds of thousands of essential staff—including TSA officers, air traffic controllers, and ICE agents—must continue working without salaries. Non-essential employees are being furloughed. Unlike federal staff, contractors such as cleaners and security guards are not guaranteed back pay. Meanwhile, members of Congress will continue to receive their $174,000 annual salaries.
Services Affected
Essential services like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, air traffic control, law enforcement, border security, and disaster response will continue, though delays are possible due to limited staffing. National parks, Smithsonian museums, immigration hearings, and processing of federal loans for small businesses and homebuyers are expected to shut down. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will also scale back inspections of food products such as meat, milk, and eggs.
Travel and Transportation
Commercial flights will keep operating. Out of 61,475 TSA employees, about 58,488 have been ordered to work without pay. More than 13,000 certified air traffic controllers will also remain on duty unpaid, while trainees are furloughed.
Veterans, Students, and Benefits
The Department of Veterans Affairs will continue providing health care, pensions, and housing support. Pell Grants and federal student loans are expected to continue for now, though processing delays are likely. Extended shutdowns could create funding problems for schools and universities.
Nationwide Impact
The effects won’t be limited to Washington, DC. Around 85% of federal employees work outside the capital in prisons, courts, military bases, and national parks, meaning local communities across the country will feel the strain.
How a Shutdown Ends
The shutdown will continue until Congress passes new funding bills and the President signs them into law. The President alone does not have the authority to end it.
Shutdown FAQs: Quick Answers
Who will lose paychecks?
Nearly 4 million federal employees, including 2 million active-duty troops and National Guard members.
Which services continue?
Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, law enforcement, border security, air traffic control, TSA, and disaster response.
What will shut down?
National parks, Smithsonian museums, immigration hearings, and federal loan processing.
Will federal contractors get back pay?
No, contractors such as cleaners and security staff are not guaranteed retroactive pay.
Is travel affected?
Flights continue, but TSA staff and air traffic controllers must work without pay until funding is restored.
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