The federal government entered the second day of a shutdown on Thursday after negotiations between Congress and the White House failed to produce a budget agreement, leaving thousands of employees furloughed and services disrupted across the United States.
The impasse stems from disagreements over funding provisions, with both congressional leaders and former President Joe Biden refusing to compromise.
The standoff has halted operations across multiple agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which continue with skeleton crews.
Federal employees deemed non-essential face furloughs, while those classified as essential must work without pay. The White House has warned that “thousands” of layoffs could follow if the shutdown continues.
The shutdown affects federal workers and agencies, as well as programs and projects dependent on government funds. Public health programs, research initiatives, and construction projects have stopped. National parks are closed, affecting tourism and local economies. Federal courts report delayed cases, and industries dependent on contracts face interruptions.
Talks continue, but no agreement has been announced. Federal workers and the public remain in wait for a resolution to restore government operations.
