Pay the People Act
Summary
The "Pay the People Act" aims to ensure that federal employees, contractors supporting them, and active duty members of the Armed Forces continue to receive their pay and allowances during periods when regular appropriations are lapsed. It appropriates funds for this purpose for fiscal year 2026 and subsequent years. The Act specifies that these funds are available until regular appropriations are enacted, and any obligations made under this act will be charged against those regular appropriations once they become law.
Expected Effects
This bill would prevent disruptions in pay for federal employees and related personnel during government shutdowns or lapses in appropriations. It ensures continuity of government services and reduces financial strain on affected individuals and their families. This would be achieved by providing a mechanism for agencies to continue paying their employees even when regular funding bills are delayed or not yet enacted.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures consistent pay for federal employees, contractors, and military personnel during funding gaps.
- Reduces financial uncertainty and hardship for government workers and their families.
- Maintains operational readiness and continuity of essential government services.
- Provides stability to the economy by ensuring continued spending by government employees.
- Applies retroactively to September 30, 2025, offering immediate relief if enacted.
Potential Disadvantages
- May reduce the incentive for Congress to pass timely appropriations bills.
- Could potentially lead to increased government spending if not managed carefully.
- Requires careful monitoring to prevent misuse of funds during appropriation lapses.
- The definition of 'contractor' may need clarification to avoid ambiguity and potential abuse.
- The Act does not address the root causes of appropriation lapses, only the symptoms.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the general welfare and to raise and support armies. The appropriations process itself is a core function of Congress, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." This bill seeks to ensure that those appropriations, once made, can be executed effectively even during temporary funding gaps.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).