Approximately 800,000 federal government employees would be furloughed without pay. They could receive retroactive pay once government operations resume, but there is no guarantee. Their benefits, however, would not be interrupted. The US Postal Service, the military, Congress, Veterans Administration hospitals, air traffic controllers and federal law enforcement agencies would remain open. Paychecks for active service troops could be delayed, presenting a hardship for their families. Veterans’ health and welfare services also could be affected.