U.S. Government Partially Shuts Down
The U.S. Senate twice rejected a Republican bill to continue federal government funding, failing to reach the required 60 votes, Report says.
As a result, starting October 1, federal employees will be furloughed, and government agencies will partially suspend operations.
Senate Republican leader John Thune said Democrats are responsible for the possible shutdown, as they did not support the bill aimed at preventing the "shutdown."
Republican Senator Ted Cruz warned the partial shutdown could last weeks.
According to U.S. law, agencies related to national security and foreign policy will continue operating even if funding stops. Employees involved in protecting citizens' lives and property must also continue working but will not be paid until the budget is resolved.
Federal agencies prepared shutdown plans in advance. Social benefits for the elderly, disabled, and other vulnerable groups will not be interrupted. The State Department will continue issuing passports and visas, and consular services will remain open domestically and abroad.
