Effects of the Government Shutdown
The government has been shut down for 41 days, federal funded programs have been shut down and federal workers have been furloughed. This government shutdown is counted as the longest in U.S. history. It is beginning to impact more areas of the government such as airports with flights being canceled, many more national parks are being closed including zoos, and continuing damage to those families who rely on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Latest Updates
On Monday evening, Nov. 9, 2025, when the Senate passed a motion to reopen the government. This motion was a temporary budget which would include three year long funding bills for federal organizations/programs. The vote was 60-40 where just enough Moderate Democrats reached across the aisle. The catch of this deal made to pass the funding bill was that, “In exchange for the eight Democratic votes, Republicans agreed to hold a vote by mid-December on extending health care tax credits that have been central to Democrats’ demands…” CBS News stated.
Those eight votes were needed to pass the bill in order to get the government out of a shutdown, even though now those Senators now face backlash from the Democratic party. Many members of the Democratic party are disappointed in the passing of the funding bill, for example, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) told a CNN news correspondent that “[the voting was] an absolute disgrace.”
What Happens Next?
As the Senate just voted and passed the funding bill which will reopen the government, it now heads to the House floor for the House of Representatives to vote on it. If the funding bill passes in the House, it will be sent to President Trump’s desk to sign. This vote will occur most likely later this week as the goal is to reopen the federal government by Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. Otherwise, in the case that the motion to vote and pass the Senate proposed funding bill fails, the government remains in shutdown and there will be amendments made. This then continues the cycle of debate and voting until it passes.
How will this continue to impact Maryland?
Many of the same effects are the same as last mentioned. Many families who have members that are federal government employees will continue to work without pay, and hopefully as the government shutdown comes to an end that they will be reinstated. On Nov. 7, 2025, Governor Wes Moore announced an additional $700 no interest loan is available for essential workers. Additionally, the Maryland Transit Administration is offering free rides for federal employees. Then, Wes Moore said, “[authorized]10.1 million [dollars] for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program to fund household energy bills,” CBS News stated.
How can students help & learn more?
Students should continue to participate in any community service drives that are happening in their community. This would be a good opportunity for students to participate in BHS’s SGA Turkey Bowl that is taking place Nov. 19-21 during lunches.
Senior, Caroline Teagues shared, “I knew what a government shutdown was, but never knew the extent of it and how it impacted families” she said. “I have been participating in service drives within BHS, and plan to participate in the food drive for thanksgiving.”
The Turkey Bowl is where you donate food items or pay to bowl a frozen turkey! Additionally, students should look into or talk with their families about implications of this government shutdown, as well as if anyone in their family is being affected by it. Furthermore, if you have any questions and want to receive updates don’t be afraid to ask our government teacher, Mrs. Robinson.
If you are still confused on what a government shutdown is, check out our previous article.