All government shutdowns disrupt science − in 2025, the consequences extend far beyond a lapse in funding

The government shutdown will continue until Congress can pass a bill reopening it. Samuel Corum/AFP via Getty Images

U.S. science always suffers during government shutdowns. Funding lapses send government scientists home without pay. Federal agencies suspend new grant opportunities, place expert review panels on hold, and stop collecting and analyzing critical public datasets that tell us about the economy, the environment and public health.

In 2025, the stakes are higher than in past shutdowns.