The US fiscal year, or spending year, begins on October 1.
New Delhi: Voting on the funding bill is scheduled for Tuesday, 30 September 2025, in the USA. If the bill isn’t passed by 12 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, government funding will be halted for the first time in Trump’s second term. This is referred to as a “government shutdown.”
The two major parties in the US, the Democrats and Republicans, are at odds over the Obama healthcare subsidy programme. This has increased the risk of government operations collapsing and 900,000 employees being forced to leave.
What do Democrats want?
Democrats want to increase healthcare subsidies. Republicans fear that increasing subsidies will require more money for government spending, which will impact other government functions. President Trump and Democratic leaders met at the White House on Monday to prevent a shutdown, but the meeting failed.
Spending season begins on October 1
The US fiscal year, or spending year, begins on October 1. It’s essentially the government’s financial year, during which it plans its spending and budget.
During this time, the government decides where to invest, such as in the military, health, or education. If a new budget isn’t passed by this date, the government could shut down. This is why so much emphasis is being placed on passing the funding bill.
Decision is in Trump’s hands: Opposition lawmakers
Democratic Congressman Chuck Schumer says, “If he agrees to our proposals, the shutdown can be averted.” Meanwhile, Democratic Congressman Peter Welch said, “We are facing a health crisis. Trump should accept the decisions of Congress.” But the chances of a deal seem slim.
On the other hand, Republicans are accusing Schumer of forcibly blocking the funding bill. Republican Congressman Josh Hawley said, “What does the shutdown have to do with health subsidies?” We are ready to negotiate, but don’t force a government shutdown.
How will shutdown affect America?
If a government shutdown occurs in the US, the government will have no money to meet its expenses. This stops salaries for government employees and other expenses. During a shutdown, the US government has to cut its expenses. However, emergency services such as medical services, border security, and air services continue. In the last 50 years, the US has experienced 20 shutdowns due to funding bill delays. During Trump’s previous term alone, the government faced three government shutdowns.
