Frustration over government shutdowns has led senators to consider what was once unthinkable: forfeiting their pay during a funding lapse. In a rare show of bipartisanship, the Senate voted unanimously Wednesday to move forward on a resolution that would withhold member paychecks during future shutdowns, a move that comes after months of protracted spending fights […]
Congress
Proposal follows nearly back-to-back, record-breaking partial shutdowns
A sign outside of the National Gallery of Art says “Closed due to federal government shutdown” in Washington on Oct. 14, 2025. (Bill Clark/CQ Roll Call)
Posted May 13, 2026 at 5:22pm
Senators have unanimously approved a resolution to withhold their pay during government shutdowns. Lawmakers said the measure…
Shutting down the government should not be the default, said Louisiana Sen. John Kennedy, who sponsored the bill.
If and when the next government shutdown rolls around, the laundry list of consequences will now include a pay freeze for U.S.…
The Senate approved a rules change on Thursday aimed at raising the political cost of funding lapses as Congress barrels toward…
Lawmakers are floating bipartisan commissions, weekend work, and "rifle shot" bills to get the Senate moving again and lessen the…
Government staff describe their uncertainty during a budget impasse - though not all of them oppose the shutdown.
