Shutdown Fairness Act
Sen. Johnson Introduces Shutdown Fairness Act to Pay Federal Workers During Funding Gaps
The Shutdown Fairness Act has been introduced in the Senate and is currently waiting on the legislative calendar for further action. It is actively moving through the early stages of the process. There are no specific upcoming votes scheduled at this time.
Legislative Progress
While this bill helps workers, many lawmakers worry that making shutdowns less painful will make them happen more often. It also lacks broad support from the other party right now.
Key Points
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
Reservists who perform active service or inactive duty training during a government shutdown would be covered by guaranteed pay. While this doesn't directly affect all veterans, it provides peace of mind for those still serving in reserve components that they won't face pay disruptions.
“a member of a reserve component who, during a lapse in regular appropriations with respect to the applicable agency, performs active service or inactive duty training”
State Impacts
Milestones
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 267.
The bill is now on the schedule for the full chamber to consider. It's in line for debate and a vote.
Introduced in the Senate. Read the first time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time.
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Introduced in Senate
The bill was officially filed and given a number. It now enters the legislative queue.
Votes
No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.
Related News
2 articles
Gottheimer, bipartisan group introduce bill to ensure federal workers, troops get paid during shutdowns
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers introduced the Shutdown Fairness Act to guarantee that federal employees, service members, and contractors receive paychecks on time during shutdowns. The bill aims to prevent workers from being used as 'political pawns' during budget disputes.

Unions, Trade Groups Stump for Federal Shutdown Pay Bill
A coalition of 32 organizations, including the AFGE, is urging Congress to pass the Shutdown Fairness Act. The groups argue that requiring employees to work without pay during the ongoing DHS shutdown undermines morale and risks the retention of critical personnel in national security roles.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Shutdown Fairness Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(8)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.