Shutdown Fairness Act
Summary
The Shutdown Fairness Act aims to provide appropriations for federal employees, contract employees, and members of the Armed Forces during lapses in government appropriations. It ensures these individuals receive their standard compensation, regardless of furloughs. The bill applies retroactively to September 30, 2025, and covers future fiscal years.
Expected Effects
The act would ensure consistent pay for government workers and contractors during government shutdowns. This would mitigate the financial strain and uncertainty shutdowns cause. It also mandates that covered employees and contractors perform their typical duties to the maximum extent practicable during a lapse in regular appropriations.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures timely payment to federal employees and contractors during government shutdowns.
- Reduces financial uncertainty for affected individuals and families.
- Maintains government services by ensuring employees continue working.
- Provides retroactive compensation for the period beginning October 1, 2025.
- Supports national security by ensuring members of the Armed Forces are paid during lapses in appropriations.
Potential Disadvantages
- May incentivize Congress to delay appropriations, knowing employees will still be paid.
- Could potentially increase government spending if not managed responsibly.
- May create a sense of complacency regarding the importance of timely budget approvals.
- The definition of 'covered contract employee' could be subject to interpretation and potential abuse.
- Could lead to disputes over which employees are 'required to perform work'.
Constitutional Alignment
The Shutdown Fairness Act aligns with the Constitution's directive to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble) by ensuring military personnel are paid during shutdowns. It also relates to Congress's power to appropriate funds (Article I, Section 9, Clause 7). However, the act's potential to incentivize delayed appropriations could be seen as undermining the constitutional budget process.
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).