The U.S. is on the brink of a partial government shutdown, with funding set to expire imminently if Congress and the White House fail to reach an agreement on a continuing resolution (CR).
If a shutdown occurs, agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will lay off many workers. HHS estimates that 41 percent of its employees, about 32,460 out of 79,717, would be affected. Essential services, such as Medicare, Medicaid, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and health marketplace operations, will continue to run, but many public health and research projects may face interruptions.
“If the government shuts down, it’s because Republicans have made the decision to shut the government down,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Among the hardest-hit agencies will be the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), with significant staff cuts expected.
“Major decisions should not be made in haste. They certainly shouldn’t be made because one party is threatening to shut down the government if it doesn’t get its way,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune.
Some operations will continue, but programs for epidemic prevention, chronic disease initiatives, and regulatory oversight may be delayed or suspended. The standoff has worsened due to disputes over healthcare subsidies, workforce reduction plans, and budget issues. The White House has warned of more layoffs if Democrats do not agree to “keep the government open.”
“As Democrats bring the nation to the brink of a government shutdown, they jeopardize critical funding for veterans, seniors, law enforcement, and many others,” the White House said in a released statement. “As Democrats threaten to disrupt the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans, organizations across the country are urging them to follow through on their word, join with President Donald J. Trump and Republicans, and keep government functioning for the people it serves.”
Congressional leaders are trying to strike a deal, but strong partisan divides remain. Some lawmakers are already blaming the opposing parties if funding is not renewed.
Government shutdowns have typically been resolved at the last minute, often through small continuing resolutions instead of significant policy changes. Shutdowns can disrupt administrative operations, delay benefit payments, pause federal contracts, and interrupt regulatory actions.
