The U.S. government shut down much of its operations on Wednesday, Oct. 1, as deep partisan divisions prevented Congress and the White House from reaching a funding deal, setting off what could be a long standoff and the loss of thousands of federal jobs — but some services will continue.
Agencies warned that the 15th government shutdown since 1981 will halt the release of a closely watched September employment report, slow air travel, suspend scientific research, withhold pay from U.S. troops and lead to the furlough of 750,000 federal workers at a daily cost of $400 million.
Meanwhile, Michigan lawmakers prevented, at least temporarily, a Michigan government shutdown by agreeing to keep working on a state budget.
Here’s a look at what to expect during a federal government shutdown.
What happens during a federal government shutdown?
During a government shutdown, all federal agencies and services deemed non-essential must stop working, affecting thousands of federal employees and, in turn, millions of Americans.
Essential services, like military and law enforcement, remain working, although they may not receive pay until the shutdown ends.
What’s open during a government shutdown?
Here are some services that remain open during a government shutdown. Keep in mind some services may face disruption or delays because of reductions in staff. For example, during the 2018-19 federal shutdown, air traffic controllers worked without pay, but there were widespread delays.
What’s closed during a government shutdown?
Here are some departments and services that could close during a government shutdown:
How many federal employees are there in Michigan?
As of September 2024, Michigan had a little more than 29,000 federal civilian employees. That number, according to preliminary figures, grew to more than 35,000 at the end of March 2025 with nearly one-third employed by the Veterans Health Administration.
Which agencies employee the most federal workers in Michigan?
Here’s a look at departments and agencies employing the most civilian federal workers — excluding the U.S. Postal Service and some other agencies, according to March 2025 data.
Contributing: Reuters
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: What’s open, closed during a federal government shutdown? Mail, Social Security continue
Reporting by Natalie Neysa Alund, Saman Shafiq, Jalen Williams and Dan Basso, USA TODAY NETWORK / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
