What impact would a shutdown of the federal government have?

AI-assisted summary

Congress must pass a funding resolution before the end of September to avoid a government shutdown.

National parks would likely close, while essential services like the military and air traffic control would continue without pay.

Social Security, Medicare, and veterans' benefits would continue, though some delays are possible.

Another U.S. government shutdown is looming unless Congress approves a short-term funding resolution or up to a dozen full-year funding bills before the end of September.

A short-term funding resolution is the most likely option to keep the federal government open when the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1, but there was little movement as of Sept. 24 among Congressional leaders to discuss a compromise, USA TODAY reported . Funding bills requir