As the clock ticks closer to midnight Friday, the specter of a government shutdown looms, threatening to disrupt a range of federal programs—though with less severity than previous closures. Despite the potential shutdown, many critical services will maintain operations due to prior appropriations by Congress.

House leaders, already behind schedule, are racing to pass a funding package recently approved by the Senate. This legislative effort aims to prevent a complete shutdown by securing essential funding, notably the $839 billion earmarked for military operations. The urgency is palpable, as a failure to enact the package swiftly could result in a temporary cessation of various federal activities.

While the military and numerous domestic programs face a funding halt, several key agencies will continue to operate as usual. Thanks to proactive funding measures taken in November and earlier this month, departments such as Energy, Commerce, Justice, Agriculture, Interior, and Veterans Affairs, along with essential services like farm loans and SNAP food assistance, will not be affected. This strategic funding also covers military construction, the EPA, FDA, and federal science initiatives, ensuring their uninterrupted function despite the fiscal impasse.

However, the potential shutdown is not without its consequences. Starting early Saturday, crucial non-defense sectors including transportation, labor, housing, education, and health services could experience disruptions. Administrative operations in the IRS, along with trade agencies, foreign aid, and the departments of Homeland Security, State, and Treasury are also slated for suspension. These interruptions could pose significant challenges, particularly if the shutdown extends beyond the anticipated brief period.

The impact on federal employees is expected to be minimal, with most facing only a single day off work if the House can deliver the funding package to President Trump by Monday. However, the uncertainty of the legislative process leaves room for potential delays, which could extend the scope and duration of the shutdown.

In anticipation of these events, federal agencies and employees are bracing for a potentially tumultuous period, hoping for a swift resolution to the funding gridlock. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Congress to finalize the appropriations and restore normalcy to the affected services and personnel.