<P> Standoffs between the President and Congress or between political parties, elections, and more urgent legislative matters complicate the budget process, frequently making the continuing resolution a common occurrence in American government . They allow the government to take its time making difficult fiscal decisions . </P> <P> Federal agencies are disrupted during periods of reduced funding . With non-essential operations suspended, many agencies are forced to interrupt research projects, training programs, or other important functions . Its impact on day - to - day management can be severe, costing some employees the equivalent of several months' time . </P> <P> Between fiscal year 1977 and fiscal year 2015, Congress only passed all twelve regular appropriations bills on time in four years - fiscal years 1977, 1989, 1995, and 1997 . </P> <P> Between 1976 and 2013, there have been 18 Government shutdowns in the United States . Most of these shutdowns revolved around budget issues including fights over the debt ceiling and led to the furlough of certain' non-essential' personnel . The majority of these fights lasted 1--2 days with a few exceptions lasting more than a week . </P>

When was the last time congress passed a budget bill for the entire fiscal year