Summary
Reduces the yearly pay for Members of Congress for each day the government is shut down or cannot pay its bills because the debt limit has been reached.
What problem does this solve?
Members of Congress continue to get paid during government shutdowns or debt crises, even when other federal operations are disrupted. This bill stops their pay during these events to encourage them to find a solution faster.
What does this bill do?
Reduces pay during a government shutdown
Lowers the annual salary of Members of Congress for each 24-hour period that the government is shut down. This rule starts after the November 2026 election.
Reduces pay when debt limit is reached
Lowers the annual salary of Members of Congress for each 24-hour period that the government cannot meet its obligations because the debt limit is reached. This rule starts after the November 2026 election.
Holds pay in escrow for the 119th Congress
During the 119th Congress, any pay lost during a shutdown or default is put into a special account instead of being permanently cut. This applies until the November 2026 election.
Releases escrow funds at end of term
To follow the Constitution, all money held in the special escrow account will be paid out to the Members of Congress on the last day of the 119th Congress.
Who does this affect?
- Members of Congress
What is the real world impact?
•
Increases accountability for Congress
Forces Members of Congress to share in the consequences of a government shutdown or debt default. By linking their personal pay to the government's operational status, it creates a strong reason to pass budgets and manage the national debt on time.
When does this start?
The permanent pay reduction rules will begin after the federal election in November 2026, with special temporary rules for the 119th Congress.
Reference
Text:
Section:
Sec. 2(b)(3)
Header:
Exception for days occurring after general election
Temporary Pay Withholding
During the 119th Congress, pay is withheld and placed in escrow during a shutdown or default. This rule is in effect until the November 2026 general election.
Permanent Pay Reduction
The rule to permanently reduce annual pay for shutdown or default days begins after the regularly scheduled general election for Federal office held in November 2026.
Release of Escrow Funds
Any funds held in escrow during the 119th Congress will be released to Members on the last day of that Congress.