New Jersey: Everything You Need To Know About The Federal Government Shutdown

The Federal Government shutdown has begun. A federal government shutdown happens when the government runs out of approved funding because Congress hasn’t passed a budget or temporary spending plan.

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When that happens, many government offices and services close or slow down, except for “essential” ones like national security, air traffic control, or Social Security payments. It’s basically the government pausing a lot of its work until lawmakers agree on how to fund it.

New Jersey: Everything You Need To Know About The Federal Government Shutdown (Patch)

• Social Security checks will continue to be sent out, and seniors with Medicare can still visit their doctors, receive care, and submit claims for reimbursement.
• FBI agents, CIA officers, air traffic controllers, and airport security staff continue their duties, along with members of the Armed Forces.
• During a shutdown, veterans will still receive health care. VA hospitals and clinics remain open, benefits continue to be processed and paid, and burials at VA national cemeteries will go on as scheduled.
• The U.S. Postal Service isn’t affected by a shutdown since it funds itself through sales, not tax dollars. The mail will be delivered.
• National Parks: "As a general rule, if a facility or area is inaccessible during non-business hours, it’ll be locked for the duration of the lapse in funding, according to a March 2024 plan. At parks where it’s impractical or impossible to restrict public access, staffing will vary by park."

According to New Jersey Republican Congressman Tom Kean, in an online post, “While three of their colleagues crossed the aisle, Senator Booker and Senator Kim chose partisanship and voted to shut down the government tonight."

Stay with us for continued news and updates on the Federal Government shutdown.