Government Accountability During Shutdowns Act

WE NEED IMMEDIATE ACTION TO PROTECT TAXPAYERS AND HOLD CONGRESS ACCOUNTABLE. 

In response to repeated federal government shutdowns that harm American families and businesses, we are calling for the introduction of the Government Accountability During Shutdowns Act.

This bill ensures that Members of Congress and senior federal officials do not receive pay or benefits during a shutdown — while providing tax relief to all U.S. citizens for each day the government fails to operate.

We need just one Congressperson to have the dignity and who truly represents the community of the United States of America to file this bill for consideration in both chambers of Congress.

Background

When Congress fails to pass a budget or appropriations on time, the federal government enters a “shutdown” — halting services, delaying pay for federal workers, and disrupting the economy.

However, Members of Congress continue to receive salaries and taxpayer-funded benefits even as essential workers go unpaid. This bill ends that double standard.

Key Provisions

1. No Pay During Shutdowns.
2. All congressional salaries and benefits — including pay, healthcare, pensions, and reimbursements — are immediately suspended when a shutdown begins, with no deferred or retroactive payments allowed.
3. Equal Accountability for Senior Officials.
4.  The President, Vice President, and all Senate-confirmed appointees are subject to the same suspension of pay and benefits.
5. Tax Relief for Citizens.
6. Every U.S. citizen receives a daily income tax credit equal to 1/365th of their total annual federal tax liability for each day the government is shut down.
7. Transparency & Oversight.
8. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) must publish a report within 10 days of every shutdown, detailing suspended payments and total taxpayer relief provided.

“If Congress can’t keep the government open, it shouldn’t get paid. Period. Working families

shouldn’t carry the cost of political gridlock — lawmakers should. The Government Accountability During Shutdowns Act restores fairness, enforces responsibility, and gives taxpayers real relief when Washington fails to do its job.”

Fiscal and Ethical Impact

• No additional spending — the bill reduces costs by suspending pay and benefits for Congress and senior officials.
• Taxpayer fairness — citizens receive direct tax relief for each day of shutdown.
• Restores trust — ensures accountability at the highest levels of government.

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THANK YOU!