When is the government shutdown deadline? What to know as shutdown looms

In the midst of a looming government shutdown, President-elect Donald Trump has come out against Congress’ plan to fund the government through March.

Trump’s statement comes after Congressional leaders released the text of a short-term bill to keep the federal government funded on Tuesday night.

The bill released is more than 1,500 pages long and includes more than $100 billion for disaster relief funding for areas impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“Republicans must GET SMART and TOUGH,” Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance wrote in a joint statement Wednesday. “If Democrats threaten to shut down the government unless we give them everything they want, then CALL THEIR BLUFF.”

With a potential government shutdown looming ahead of the holidays, here’s what you need to know.

Government shutdown: Donald Trump rejects bipartisan plan to avoid a government shutdown, sets up debt ceiling battle

When is the government shutdown deadline?

Current funding expires on Friday night when Congress hopes to adjourn for the holidays. If a funding bill is not passed, then the government will see itself forced to furlough thousands of federal workers and reduce federal services.

What happens to federal workers during a government shutdown?

Although the word shutdown sounds like a complete stop, that is not the complete picture. Federal agencies classify their workers either as “essential” or “nonessential.”

Workers identified as essential continue to work, but might not be paid right away. On the other hand, nonessential workers are furloughed and are not allowed to work or to be paid until the government reopens, according to a breakdown compiled by Reuters.

About 800,000 federal employees went without pay for 35 days during the longest-ever U.S. government shutdown in 2018 and 2019.

What happens to Social Security and Medicare?

Both retirement and disability benefits proceed without interruptions. Medicare and Medicare benefits also continue, but some delays could be seen due to a government shutdown.

What happens to veterans benefits and food assistance during a shutdown?

Similarly to Social Security, veterans continue to receive their benefits and medical care. Programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will also continue, though there could be minor disruptions.

Does the military shut down during a government shutdown?

All active-duty U.S. military personnel stay on the job, but about half of the Pentagon’s 800,000 civilian employees could face furloughs. Another part of the military that would stay on the job would be the National Nuclear Security Administration, which oversees nuclear weapons.

What about law enforcement?

Federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA and prison staff will remain operational. The Secret Service and Coast Guard will continue their duties.

What happens to national parks?

National parks, monuments and other sites will close to the public, with rangers furloughed and facilities shut down. Some states may temporarily fund park operations, as seen during the 2018-2019 shutdown.

How a government shutdown impacts borders and Homeland Security

Border Patrol and immigration enforcement agents will continue working. However, local governments will not receive new aid for migrant shelters.

Transportation during a government shutdown

Airport security screeners and air traffic controllers will remain on duty, but new hires and some major infrastructure projects could face delays. Absenteeism, as seen in previous shutdowns, might impact airport operations.

What happens to Congressional pay?

Lawmakers will continue to receive paychecks during a shutdown, while staffers will be furloughed, though essential personnel will still work.

A government shutdown’s impact on the White House

During past shutdowns, the White House furloughed a significant portion of its staff. Essential offices, like the National Security Council, will continue operating, while others will be scaled back. The president’s salary remains unaffected by a shutdown.

Contributing: Reuters; Jeremy Yurow

Fernando Cervantes Jr. is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him on X @fern_cerv_.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What happens during a government shutdown? Here’s what to know