Source link : https://las-vegas-news.com/senate-backs-pay-freeze-for-shutdowns/
Senators vote to withhold their own pay during future government shutdowns – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Pixabay)
Senators have approved a measure that would stop their own paychecks during any future government shutdown. The decision follows a series of extended funding standoffs that have left federal operations in limbo for record stretches over the past year. By linking their compensation directly to continued government funding, lawmakers seek to raise the personal cost of prolonged impasses and encourage faster resolutions.
Why the Change Matters Now
The new rule targets a long-standing criticism that lawmakers face little direct financial pressure when budget talks collapse. Previous shutdowns have idled agencies, delayed payments to contractors, and created uncertainty for millions of federal workers and their families. Under the approved approach, senators would receive no salary until a funding agreement restores normal operations.
Supporters argue the step creates a clearer incentive structure. Lawmakers who once could weather extended delays without personal loss would now share the immediate consequences felt by other federal employees. The measure applies only to future shutdowns and does not retroactively affect past impasses.
How the Rule Would Work
Once enacted, the withholding would take effect automatically at the start of any lapse in appropriations. Pay would resume only after Congress passes and the president signs a…
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Author : Matthias Binder
Publish date : 2026-05-14 17:26:00
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