U.S. government shutdown 2025

Here are some useful terms when covering a U.S. government shutdown:

shutdown (n.) shut down (v.)

furlough versus layoff (n.) lay off (v.)

When workers are furloughed, they are let go by an employer but are considered on a leave of absence and sometimes remain eligible for benefits such as health insurance. Employees who are laid off are considered permanently let go. Both categories of workers are eligible for unemployment benefits. Hyphenate as a modifier: laid-off workers.

Office of Management and Budget

Capitalize office when it is part of an agency's formal name: Office of Management and Budget.

tax credit (n.)

An amount of money that is subtracted from taxes owed. Example: Families with children in college will receive a tax credit this year.

Affordable Care Act

Shorthand for the formal title of the health care overhaul that former President Barack Obama signed into law in 2010. On second reference, ACA or “Obamacare” (the latter in quote marks) are acceptable. Its full name is Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.