Senate Refers Bill to Withhold Pay in Shutdowns

The U.S. Senate has read a bill twice and referred it to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs that would withhold lawmakers' pay during government shutdowns. The measure aims to ensure members of Congress share the financial pain felt by federal workers forced to labor without paychecks. This comes amid ongoing debates over funding lapses that have left thousands unpaid.[1][3]

The push follows recent shutdowns, including a prolonged Department of Homeland Security impasse that furloughed or left unpaid over 100,000 employees at agencies like the TSA, Coast Guard, and FEMA. Similar efforts in the House, such as H.R. 5891 by Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wis.), advanced on a bipartisan vote to slash congressional salaries day-for-day during lapses. Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) has championed Senate versions, including one placing paychecks in escrow to sidestep constitutional concerns under the 27th Amendment.[1][3][4]

For Milwaukee residents, this matters as federal workers from nearby bases like Fort McCoy and Great Lakes Naval Station—or those commuting to Chicago's airports—have endured missed paychecks totaling billions nationwide. Wisconsin Rep. Steil's involvement highlights local stakes in curbing shutdowns that disrupt families and heighten travel delays at Mitchell International Airport.[1][2][6]

The bill now awaits committee action, potentially teeing up a full Senate vote if momentum builds from House progress and public pressure for accountability.[1][3]