The threat of a government shutdown is hanging over the heads of the American people. And if Congress doesn’t pass a new spending bill by Sept. 30, that threat will turn into a reality.
A government shutdown typically occurs when Congress fails to pass the spending bills or a continuing resolution that funds government agencies and programs.
Without an approved budget or temporary funding measure, government agencies do not have the legal authority to spend money. This leads to disruptions in government services and the furloughing of non-essential government employees.
But a government shutdown doesn’t mean that all government programs slam to a halt. Here’s some of what will stay open and be closed in the event of a shutdown.
Yes, you can still go to the post office
The United States Postal Service will still be open even if the government shuts down.
“The United States Postal Service does not cease operations during any Federal lapse in appropriations as it is funded through a permanent no-year appropriation,” according to the agency’s shutdown plan.
The USPS won’t be affected by a government shutdown as it’s an independent body that operates through its own internal budget rather than receiving tax dollars funded through Congress.
Yes, you can still take a flight, but …
Although airports will still be open, there may be significant travel delays, according to Nerdwallet.
Both TSA workers and air traffic controllers would still be expected to work even without pay if the government shuts down. But if the shutdown lasts too long, then the federal workers may refuse to work with a paycheck, which could lead to longer wait times for travelers, Nerdwallet reported.
No, you won’t be able to go to certain zoos or museums
All Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo will be closed if the government shuts down. But private, state-owned or public museums and/or zoos will still be up and running.
“The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, like all Smithsonian museums, receives federal funding. Thus, during a government shutdown, the Zoo — and the rest of the Smithsonian museums — must close to the public,” the National Zoo said on its website.
Will national parks be open? It’s unclear
Some national parks may be completely closed to visitors during a government shutdown. This is done to ensure the safety of visitors and protect park resources when there are insufficient staff and funds to maintain operations.
However, a report from the Congressional Research Service national parks can accept donations to keep some park operations running even in the event of a government shutdown, Verfifythis.com reported.
Yes, the DMV will still be open
The DMV will still be open since the agency is funded by the state instead of the federal government.
However, it’s essential to note that specific state policies and practices may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local DMV office or visit their website for any updates or changes in their operating hours or services during a federal government shutdown or other emergencies.
