WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, has introduced two bills aimed at preventing members of Congress from receiving pay during a government shutdown or lapse in appropriations.
The No Shutdown Paychecks to Politicians Act would bar lawmakers from collecting paychecks while the federal government is closed and would also prohibit back pay once operations resume.
The Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act (S.3057) would require payroll administrators for both chambers of Congress to hold members’ salaries in escrow during a shutdown, releasing the funds only at the start of the next Congress.
“I don’t see missing paychecks or empty dinner plates as leverage or bargaining chips. My bills ensure Congress feels the same pain as the folks we’re failing to pay – our troops, air traffic controllers, and federal workers,” Kennedy said. “If we can’t do our jobs and fund the government, we don’t deserve a paycheck – plain and simple.”
Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.), chairman of the U.S. Committee on House Administration, introduced the companion measure in the House.
“There is no reason our government should be shut down,” Steil said. “If service members, men and women of federal law enforcement, and other essential employees are working without pay during the Schumer shutdown, members of Congress should not be paid either.”