What consequences could arise if the US government shuts down? Donald Trump issues a serious warning, sparking nationwide concern.
A government shutdown could be imminent
A U.S. government shutdown may occur if Congress fails to pass a funding bill today (March 11). The situation remains uncertain.
Donald Trump told reporters the shutdown “probably won’t” happen. However, everything depends on the vote for a “continuing resolution” (CR) bill later today.
Speaker of the House Mike Johnson proposed a short-term funding bill in December.
This bill kept the government running until March 14. If Congress does not pass another bill before this deadline, a shutdown will begin.
The last government shutdown lasted 35 days
The last shutdown, lasting 35 days, occurred under Trump’s administration in late 2018 and early 2019.
The shutdown happened because Trump requested $5.7 billion for a U.S.-Mexico border wall.
Additionally, the funding dispute led to a prolonged closure, which impacted federal workers and government operations.
Republicans, who control the House, introduced a CR bill on March 8. This bill would extend government funding until the end of the 2025 fiscal year (September 30).
However, lawmakers still need to vote on the bill today. If no deal is reached by midnight, the government will shut down for the first time in six years.
The devastating effects of the 2019 shutdown
The 2019 shutdown had serious consequences, costing at least $11 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office.
– 380,000 federal workers were furloughed.
– 420,000 workers had to continue working without pay.
– The IRS delayed processing $140 billion in tax refunds.
– FBI investigations were disrupted.
– Airports faced major delays due to TSA staff shortages.
What could happen if a shutdown occurs this week
A shutdown would cause nationwide disruptions, similar to 2019.
Essential services will continue:
– Hospitals will provide emergency medical care.
– Law enforcement and border protection will operate.
– Air traffic control will remain active.
Non-essential services may shut down or be delayed:
– Student loan processing may pause.
– Food assistance programs could be affected.
– Federally funded preschools may close.
– National parks could shut down.
– Benefit verifications and card issuance may stop.
– Social Security and Medicare payments will continue.
Federal employees classified as “essential” must continue working, though possibly without pay. Non-essential workers will be placed on unpaid leave.
The longer a shutdown lasts, the worse the consequences will be.
TSA spokesperson Carter Langston warned: “An extended shutdown could mean longer wait times at airports.” Other federal agencies will also experience increased disruptions over time.
If lawmakers do not pass the funding bill today, millions of Americans could face serious financial and logistical challenges.