Government shutdown: What will and won't happen during federal shutdown

Thursday, January 10, 2019
WASHINGTON -- When the U.S. government shuts down, what does and does not happen? Here are answers to some of the most common questions.
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Q: Does Congress still get paid during a shutdown?
A: Yes, but members of Congress can voluntarily give up their salary during a shutdown, and many have done that in the past.

Q: What happens to the military?
A: U.S. military operations will continue around the world.

Q: What about service members' paychecks?
A: Service members do not get paid during the shutdown, but will continue to work. Most civilian Department of Defense employees will be furloughed.

Q: What about passport services from the State Department?
A: State Department will continue to offer passport services, but will be closed for the holidays, reopening after Christmas on Wednesday.

Q: Will I get my mail?
A: You will still get your mail.
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Q: What happens to the Supreme Court?
A: Supreme Court will continue to operate.

Q: Social Security?
A: Social Security Administration will continue to issue checks.

Q: Medicare and Medicaid?
A: Medicare and Medicaid will continue to be accepted, but customer service at these agencies may be impacted by furloughed employees.

Q: What about NASA?
A: Mission Control will still operate 24/7 to support the astronauts in space. However, support services like social media and NASA TV will be impacted.
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Q: What if I want to buy a gun?
A: FBI says gun background checks will continue during the shutdown.

Q: Will National Parks be open?
A: National Parks should be open, but some areas may be limited because staff will be furloughed.

VIDEO: 5 things to know about a government shutdown
5 things to know about a government shutdown
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