If federal workers don’t get paid during a shutdown, why should Congress?

During government shutdowns, thousands of essential workers—including TSA agents, military personnel, and federal employees—are forced to work without pay or are furloughed entirely.

Meanwhile, Members of Congress continue collecting their full salaries—over $174,000 per year.

This disconnect is unacceptable.

Those responsible for passing a budget should not be insulated from the consequences of failing to do so.

 
Why This Matters
Government shutdowns:

Disrupt critical services
Harm working families
Cost the U.S. economy billions
Undermine trust in leadership
Yet lawmakers face no immediate financial consequence when they fail to fund the government.

That’s not accountability—that’s exemption.

 
The Solution
Congress must pass legislation requiring that:

All Members of Congress forfeit their pay during any government shutdown caused by a failure to pass funding legislation.
No exceptions.
No back pay.
No retroactive compensation.

If the government isn’t funded, Congress shouldn’t be paid.

 
The Principle
Public service should mean shared sacrifice—not special protection.

If federal workers are expected to endure missed paychecks, elected officials should face the same reality.

 
Call to Action
Sign this petition to demand accountability, fairness, and leadership that shares in the consequences of its decisions.

No budget. No pay. No exceptions.