A '''"government shutdown"''' is a suspension of non-essential government services, such as the administration of national parks, lotteries, etc. Despite the scary-sounding verbiage, the military and all other essential services continue without interruption. In late 1995 and early 1996 the US government shut down non-essential services during a partisan budget crisis. | A '''"government shutdown"''' is a suspension of non-essential government services, such as the administration of national parks, lotteries, etc. Despite the scary-sounding verbiage, the military and all other essential services continue without interruption. In late 1995 and early 1996 the US government shut down non-essential services during a partisan budget crisis. |