What happens to federal workers when the government shuts down?

As politicians spar over whose fault it is the government shut down, other federal employees are still going to work — but they'll have to wait for their next paychecks.

The partial shutdown began at midnight after President Donald Trump and congressional leaders failed to reach a funding compromise Sept. 30.

What triggers a government shutdown?

Congress, the legislative branch of the federal government, determines how to fund departments in the executive branch. When the U.S. House and Senate can't agree on how to do that, federal agencies must “shut down” and cease their normal operations.

As a result, many federal employees are forced to stop working while others are required to report for duty knowing they won't receive a paycheck until Congress passes a spending bill — th