What Happens During a Government Shutdown?

The border wall has been a major topic of debate since President Trump’s initial campaign promises in 2016, and now the President is working to see these promises through by obtaining funding for a border wall to be installed along the US and Mexico border.

The President and Congress have been at odds over approval of a spending bill that includes $5.7 billion for border security, resulting in a partial government shutdown. Our bond insurance services team explores what a government shutdown means for several components of the federal government in relation to employees and everyday people.

What Happens When the Government is Shut Down?

When the government is shutdown, such as with our current partial government shutdown, agencies that are not funded at this time will mainly cease operations. This historic shutdown is impacting agencies such as transportation, interior, agriculture, and housing. Other agencies, such as ICE and TSA, have furloughed employees, meaning these workers are not currently getting paid but they are needed at work.

When the government is shutdown, some national parks may not be operational. Nonessential government services can be paused, affecting millions of Americans. Additionally, programs requiring government approval may be delayed.

The agencies that are currently running at normal capacity and pay are agencies that have funding approved until later this year, leaving them unaffected by the shutdown. Additionally, furloughed workers will be paid their back wages once the shutdown ends.

When Will the Government Shutdown End?

Many people are wondering when the government shutdown will end. Considering that this shutdown has continued into a historic duration, it may not have an immediate end in sight. The shutdown will end when Congress and President Trump can reach an agreement regarding the spending bill.

How Does the Government Shutdown Affect Me?

For most Americans, the partial government shutdown is not creating difficulties in their lives. But affected federal workers and individuals needing certain government programs may be struggling as a result of this shutdown. Additionally, those waiting for completion of their case following issuance of immigration bonds may be struggling due to a slowdown of their case processing by government officials.