Will the US Government Be Shut Down Tonight? Updates
The US government might shut down soon because Congress can’t agree on funding. Funding is set to end at 12:01 a.m. ET on Saturday. Lawmakers are working fast to pass a short-term spending bill to avoid a shutdown.
This article keeps you updated on the latest news. It covers what a shutdown means for citizens and the talks in Washington.
Key Takeaways
- Government funding is set to expire at 12:01 a.m. ET on Saturday if Congress fails to pass a short-term spending bill.
- House Republicans rejected a previous short-term spending bill, leading to a budget impasse.
- A government shutdown could result in the furlough of hundreds of thousands of federal workers and disruptions to various government services.
- Negotiations are ongoing, but a resolution remains uncertain as key players, including President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have raised objections.
- The potential shutdown could have far-reaching consequences, from delayed Social Security applications to longer airport lines during the holiday season.
Current Status of the Government Shutdown Threat
Congress is racing against time to pass a continuing resolution (CR) before government funding runs out. This is to prevent a government shutdown. The talks are tough because of budget disagreements and different views on spending.
The main issue is the debt ceiling and the need for spending cuts. This is causing a big standoff in Congress.
Understanding the Shutdown Context
The push for a CR is complicated by a split in the Republican party. Some want big spending cuts, while others want to keep funding as is. This disagreement makes finding a deal hard.
This has raised the risk of a government shutdown. It shows how hard it is to agree on budget matters.
Key Dates and Deadlines to Consider
- The current government funding is set to expire at midnight on Friday, November 18th.
- Congress is trying to pass a new CR to extend funding until mid-March. This would give more time to find a long-term budget solution.
- If Congress can’t pass a CR by Friday, a partial government shutdown could happen. This would affect non-essential federal services.
- The debt ceiling is also a big issue. The Treasury says the government might hit the limit by mid-2023.
Lawmakers from both parties are in intense talks. They are trying to avoid a shutdown that could harm the country.
What a Government Shutdown Means for Citizens
A government shutdown can really affect people’s lives. It happens when the federal government runs out of money. This means many services stop working, leaving people wondering how it will impact them.
Services Affected During a Shutdown
A shutdown can cause big problems. It affects many federal services. Here are some examples:
- National parks and museums might close or have limited hours.
- Passport services could slow down, causing delays in getting or renewing passports.
- Some federal workers might not get paid because they’re not working.
- Small businesses might face delays in getting loans from the government.
- Some government forms and applications could be delayed or not processed.
How Long Can a Shutdown Last?
Shutdowns can last from a few days to weeks. It all depends on how long it takes for Congress and the White House to agree on money and policies.
Some shutdowns are short, while others last a long time. This uncertainty makes things harder for people. It causes a lot of inconvenience and worry.
“A government shutdown can have far-reaching consequences, disrupting a wide range of federal services that citizens rely on.”
As lawmakers deal with shutdown issues, it’s important for citizens to stay informed. Knowing which services might be affected and how long a shutdown could last helps people plan. This way, they can reduce the impact on their daily lives.
Legislative Actions Leading Up to the Deadline
As the deadline for avoiding a government shutdown gets closer, lawmakers are working hard. They are trying to find a way to keep the government running. This includes introducing new bills in Congress.
Recent Bills Introduced in Congress
- A bill that failed in the House with a vote of 174-235, which had proposed reducing a 1,500-page bill to 116 pages and included $100.4 billion in disaster assistance for hurricane-hit states.
- A new proposal that would extend government funds through March 14 and allow more borrowing through January 30, 2027.
- A plan that dropped the first pay raise for lawmakers in more than a decade, facing resistance from Democrats leading up to the vote.
Key Players Involved in Negotiations
The House Speaker, the Senate Majority Leader, and others from both sides are leading the talks. They aim to find a solution that everyone can agree on. This is to prevent a government shutdown.
“Democrats were in no hurry to appease demands from Trump or Elon Musk.”
The budget negotiations and the role of congressional leaders are key. They will decide if there’s a shutdown and what happens to important policies and funding.
The Impact on Federal Employees
With a government shutdown looming, federal workers worry about furloughs and delayed pay. Essential workers might work without pay, while others could be on unpaid leave.
Furloughs and Paychecks: What to Expect
During a shutdown, federal workers could face furloughs and pay issues. Thousands of federal workers could be furloughed, unsure when they’ll get paid. Essential workers might see their paychecks delayed until the shutdown ends.
Resources for Affected Workers
There are resources for federal employees hit by a shutdown. Unemployment benefits and financial help can offer support. Numerous routine government functions continue during a shutdown, including national defense, benefit checks, and mail delivery, giving workers some hope.
“The spending bill failed with a vote of 235 to 174, with 38 Republicans and 197 Democrats voting against it.”
Lawmakers are still working to prevent a shutdown. Federal employees need to stay ready for any impact on their jobs. Knowing their rights and using available resources can help them face uncertainty with confidence.
A government shutdown affects many, and federal employees are often hit hard. By staying informed and seeking help, they can manage the challenges and keep their finances stable.
