The United States finds itself once again facing the prospect of a government shutdown. Congressional leaders from both parties are preparing for a last-minute meeting with President Donald Trump on Monday, taking place the day before the deadline of September 30, when federal funds would expire if no deal is reached on a short-term spending bill.
What Is a US Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown is when Congress does not authorize agency funding. Agencies aren’t authorized to spend money, so they have to suspend all non-essential activities. If no agreement is reached before the stroke of midnight on September 30, shutdowns would impact significant portions of government functions. National security, law enforcement, and air traffic control would still operate. Services that would be shut down would include museums, national parks, and research institutions – until appropriations resume.https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/RL/RL34680
History of US Government Shutdowns
Since 1980, the United States has been confronted by 14 government shutdowns, its worst one in 2018 for 34 days. This episode involved roughly 800,000 furloughed employees among a total federal workforce of 2.1 million. Wages were delayed, essential services were shut down, and daily life was disrupted on a massive scale. Similar occurrences provide a glimpse into the heavy burdens shutdowns place on citizens and government employees.
The Stakes Now
If Congress is unable to come up with a solution, the immediate impact will be felt by more than 2 million federal workers. Most will be placed on furlough, while essential – and unpaid – employees will remain working. According to Reuters, the Department of Health and Human Services plans to furlough 41% of its workforce. This means that medical research, public health outreach, and contractor monitoring will stop. The results at the national health level could lower readiness, and essential services will halt for millions of Americans.
Trump’s Gathering with Congressional Leaders
The anticipated meeting with Trump and congressional leaders is nearing. The members joining him will be Senate Minority Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Democrats want the agreement to be finalized on extending the health-care subsidies and the reversal of cuts to health care in the Trump bill. However, others are stating the negotiations should occur after blocking the shutdown and proceeding towards a conference.
Conclusion: Impact of the US Government Shutdown
The imminent shutdown brings further significant partisan divides in Washington. Both sides must also provide compromises in a few hours”. The agreement from the Trump meeting with congressional leaders would play a role in deciding whether the train America continues down this path in the near future or takes another ride down an expensive standoff.
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