CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — For the first time since 2019, the U.S. government has shut down while lawmakers are at a standstill.

The last shutdown in 2019 lasted five weeks, and although the shutdown does not mean an instant collapse of all government functions, certain things will change until Congress comes to an agreement.

Government workers aren't paid

Government employees that are not designated as essential employees will not work during the shutdown. Normally, employees who are not essential are furloughed, but President Donald Trump has expressed that some workers may be permanently laid off instead, The Hill reported.

There is not an exact definition of what employees are essential, but they will include certain positions law enforcement, public safety, health care, public hea

See Full Page