Government Shutdown Appears Likely, but USDA Will Remain OpenHope of avoiding another government shutdown is fading as Congress approaches a critical funding deadline. With divisions still unresolved and time running out, the probability of a shutdown continues to rise ahead of Friday’s midnight cutoff. Current projections suggest there is a 70% chance that efforts to keep the government fully funded will fail before the deadline, triggering a shutdown. AdvertisementA government shutdown would impact numerous federal agencies and services, potentially disrupting operations, delaying programs, and creating uncertainty for businesses and industries across the country. USDA received full funding at the conclusion of last fall’s shutdown, allowing the agency to continue functioning even if other parts of the federal government close.