<h1>US government shutdown centers on whether to immediately extend ACA subsidies and the status of federal workers' pay.</h1> A continuing government shutdown has halted congressional activity amid a partisan standoff over whether funding must include an immediate extension of expanded Affordable Care Act subsidies. Democrats warn expiring subsidies will raise premiums for millions and demand a near-term fix; House Republicans argue funding can proceed without a subsidy extension and be addressed later. Informal bipartisan talks signal limited interest in targeted subsidy solutions, while repeated failed floor votes and leadership decisions to limit House action impede an immediate legislative resolution. The administration has questioned automatic back pay for furloughed federal employees, adding urgency to negotiations.