As a civil servant with over 20 years of dedicated service and a veteran, I have experienced firsthand the uncertainty and stress caused by government shutdowns. Each year, as the fiscal period draws to a close, we face the looming threat of halts in governmental operations. These shutdowns, driven by political posturing, put significant stress on federal employees while those responsible — Congress — escape unscathed.

A government shutdown disrupts countless lives, halting essential services and placing undue strain on millions of families. Federal employees, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck, suddenly face the threat of missing pay, casting shadows of financial insecurity and anxiety over their households. Meanwhile, Congress members, who hold the responsibility of ensuring a functional government, continue to receive their paychecks. This disparity is not only unfair but undermines the foundational principles of accountability and responsibility.

It's time we change this system. We propose that during any government shutdown, Congress should forgo their salaries. Moreover, to instill a greater sense of urgency, Congress should be fined $10,000 per day until they pass a budget. This penalty will encourage a more swift and serious approach towards resolving budget impasses and prioritizing the needs of the nation over political maneuvering.

This proposal aims to align lawmakers' experiences with those of the constituents they serve, ensuring that they understand the gravity of a shutdown's impact. By subjecting Congress to the same financial uncertainties that ordinary federal employees face during these periods, we hope to see quicker resolutions and more thoughtful deliberations.

We need your support to make this change a reality and hold Congress accountable for their actions. Sign this petition to demand equitable treatment and ensure that no one in our government is above the very laws and principles they are supposed to uphold.

Together, we can create a fairer system for all federal workers and reinforce the importance of accountability in governance. Please sign and share this petition to send a powerful message to Congress. Let's ensure that no one profits or is shielded from the consequences of their indecision and inaction.