What Really Happens During a Government Shutdown Explained “What happens when the U.S. government shuts down? In this quick breakdown, we explain how federal services, workers, and everyday Americans are impacted when Congress fails to pass a funding bill. From furloughed employees to delayed services like passports and IRS calls, here’s exactly what you need to know about a government shutdown — in just 30 seconds.” government shutdown, us government shutdown explained, what happens in a govern