Demand Oregon's Congressional delegation end pay during shutdowns
The Issue
Government shutdowns have become a troublingly common occurrence in the United States, with 22 shutdowns since 1976, affecting the livelihood of countless federal employees and disrupting services upon which citizens depend. The impact is not only felt by those who serve our nation but also by ordinary Americans who rely heavily on government services.
It's time for our leaders to take a firm stand. Oregon's Congressional delegation has the power to lead by example and introduce legislation ensuring that during a government shutdown, members of Congress do not receive their salaries, just as federal employees forgo theirs. This measure would hold our elected officials accountable and encourage more timely and effective budget negotiations.
During the 2018-2019 shutdown, over 800,000 federal employees were either furloughed or worked without pay for 35 days — the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Many struggled to make ends meet, falling behind on bills, with adverse effects on their families and communities. Meanwhile, members of Congress continued to receive their salaries in full.
The disparity is unacceptable. When federal workers are not getting paid, neither should the very people who are responsible for resolving the budgetary impasses — our elected officials. Enacting no-pay legislation during shutdowns would emphasize the urgency and importance of reaching a resolution without delay.
We urge Oregon's Congressional delegates to sponsor and champion this legislation. By doing so, they would be setting a precedent that prioritizes fairness and accountability in our political process. Furthermore, this action will demonstrate their solidarity with federal employees and all Americans suffering due to political standoffs over budget agreements.
Please join us in urging Oregon's Congressional delegation to sponsor no-pay legislation for shutdowns. This change will ensure that the burden of government impasses is shared equally and motivate our leaders to reach consensus swiftly. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and to demand fairness and responsibility in governance.
1
The Issue
Government shutdowns have become a troublingly common occurrence in the United States, with 22 shutdowns since 1976, affecting the livelihood of countless federal employees and disrupting services upon which citizens depend. The impact is not only felt by those who serve our nation but also by ordinary Americans who rely heavily on government services.
It's time for our leaders to take a firm stand. Oregon's Congressional delegation has the power to lead by example and introduce legislation ensuring that during a government shutdown, members of Congress do not receive their salaries, just as federal employees forgo theirs. This measure would hold our elected officials accountable and encourage more timely and effective budget negotiations.
During the 2018-2019 shutdown, over 800,000 federal employees were either furloughed or worked without pay for 35 days — the longest shutdown in U.S. history. Many struggled to make ends meet, falling behind on bills, with adverse effects on their families and communities. Meanwhile, members of Congress continued to receive their salaries in full.
The disparity is unacceptable. When federal workers are not getting paid, neither should the very people who are responsible for resolving the budgetary impasses — our elected officials. Enacting no-pay legislation during shutdowns would emphasize the urgency and importance of reaching a resolution without delay.
We urge Oregon's Congressional delegates to sponsor and champion this legislation. By doing so, they would be setting a precedent that prioritizes fairness and accountability in our political process. Furthermore, this action will demonstrate their solidarity with federal employees and all Americans suffering due to political standoffs over budget agreements.
Please join us in urging Oregon's Congressional delegation to sponsor no-pay legislation for shutdowns. This change will ensure that the burden of government impasses is shared equally and motivate our leaders to reach consensus swiftly. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and to demand fairness and responsibility in governance.
The Decision Makers
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on October 2, 2025