WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate Rules and Administration Committee unanimously advanced legislation sponsored by Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., that would withhold senators’ pay during federal government shutdowns, clearing the measure for consideration by the full Senate.
The resolution would require the secretary of the Senate to place senators’ paychecks in escrow during any government shutdown and release the funds only after the government reopens. If enacted, the policy would take effect following the November 2026 election and would remain in force unless repealed.
Kennedy said the proposal is intended to align lawmakers’ compensation with the experience of federal employees and service members affected by shutdowns.
“If the longest government shutdown in our nation’s history taught us anything, it’s that senators don’t deserve a dime from the American taxpayer until they do their jobs,” Kennedy said. “When federal workers, our troops, and border agents don’t get paid during a government shutdown, U.S. senators shouldn’t be any different.”
The Louisiana senator said the committee’s unanimous vote reflects bipartisan agreement on the issue. “This unanimous Rules Committee vote to withhold senators’ paychecks during shutdowns is a major win for common sense,” Kennedy said. “Passing my resolution is the right thing to do—pure and simple—and the Senate ought to move it across the finish line quickly.”
Kennedy first introduced versions of the legislation during a 43-day government shutdown in November 2025 and continued to press the issue after the government reopened. He later brought the proposal before the Rules and Administration Committee, where it received approval last week.
Supporters of the measure argue it creates accountability by ensuring senators do not continue to receive full pay when Congress fails to pass funding legislation and keep the federal government operating.