The government partially shut down at midnight on Oct. 1 after congressional leaders failed to agree on funding legislation necessary for the U.S. government's 2026 fiscal year.

The shutdown has prompted concerns from many Americans about changes to their SNAP benefits, air travel, mail delivery and more, with most unaware of what a government shutdown even is.

Here's everything Illinois residents need to know about the current situation, including how services in the state will be impacted.

Why did the US government shut down?

Each fiscal year, Congress allocates funding for federal agencies to operate.

However, if lawmakers do not agree on appropriations or a temporary spending bill, some federal agencies must effectively shut down or stop normal spending, according to the Off

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