The U.S. federal government shut down on Oct. 1 after Congress failed to pass a spending bill before the Sept. 30 deadline. Republicans control both chambers and the White House, but they needed Democratic support in the Senate to secure funding. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer demanded an extension of enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies, while GOP leaders sought a seven-week funding extension with additional security funding.
The shutdown affects approximately 900,000 federal workers who face furloughs without pay, while essential employees must work unpaid. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments continue, but agencies such as the FDA face reduced inspections. National parks may stay open without visitor services, and airline travel could face disruptions.
The Congressional Budget Office reported the 2018-2019 shutdown cost $3 billion in unrecovered economic activity. The U.S. Travel Association warned this shutdown will cost $1 billion weekly in lost travel spending.
The shutdown affects approximately 900,000 federal workers who face furloughs without pay, while essential employees must work unpaid. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid payments continue, but agencies such as the FDA face reduced inspections. National parks may stay open without visitor services, and airline travel could face disruptions.
The Congressional Budget Office reported the 2018-2019 shutdown cost $3 billion in unrecovered economic activity. The U.S. Travel Association warned this shutdown will cost $1 billion weekly in lost travel spending.
