31.   The distinction is significant because the government cannot operate unless the president and Congress reach an accommodation on appropriations.

32.   The federal government will be operating as usual on Monday, but Congress is not planning any floor action.

33.   The federal government operates under different overtime rules, issued by the Office of Personnel Management rather than the Secretary of Labor.

34.   The government will operate a toll-free telephone number to answer questions about the new insurance options.

35.   The federal government operates a combined stockpile and buffer stock, into which commercial producers deposit helium when demand is low, for later withdrawal if necessary.

36.   The government normally operates at a surplus in April because of the tax filing deadline.

37.   The government operates a national health care service used mainly by people with low-incomes.

38.   The history of the Interstate Highway System illustrates how democratically elected governments often operate.

39.   The new Republican-controlled Congress is making some interesting changes in the way government operates in this country, changes that are neither revolutionary nor catastrophic.