The lights may be slowly dimming in the streets of Washington D.C.
The federal government will come to a halt this Friday if Democrats and Republicans can’t resolve their budget issues. So what happens when a government shuts down?
This situation resembles a divorced couple fighting over custody of a child. Republicans and Democrats continue to bicker over budgets and money, while the fate of the children (aka the American people) hangs in the balance.
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In a matter of days, if both sides fail to come to a compromise, D.C. will be left in the dark. We know you’re wondering, what really happens when the government shuts down? Simple, no one gets paid. National parks, museums and monuments are very likely to lock their doors if a shutdown happens, along with other essential programs.
Go to the next page to read more about a possible government shutdown.
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Our Veterans
If the government shuts down we would be doing a disservice to our American veterans. They will not receive benefit checks.
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No More Smithsonian
National parks, museums and monuments are very likely to close their doors.
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No Social Security
Americans would be unable to apply for Social Security.
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The I.R.S.
The last two shutdowns did not come during tax season, but tax collection is considered ‘essential services’ and would continue. It’s hard to imagine that the federal government would ever delay cashing checks from taxpayers, but with this government you never know.
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Unemployment
Unemployment statistics would not publish as scheduled, therefore we would be unable to measure job growth.
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No Passports
Thinking about that vacation to Jamaica? Well if the government shuts down, the State Department won’t be able to issue new passports.
