WASHINGTON: A partial economic shutdown has begun in the United States after the Senate refused to approve the budget for next year, Dispatch News Desk reported.
A midnight deadline passed without agreement despite an appeal by President Barack Obama.
Most of the federal offices will remain closed and over 700‚000 government employees will not get their salaries. However‚ key institutions like air traffic control and military operations will continue. Social security benefits will also be paid.
In his reaction‚ President Obama said it is unfortunate that the Congress has not fulfilled its responsibility of passing the budget.
