The gist

• Freezes paychecks of Senators or Representatives whose chamber misses the October 1 deadline to pass all annual spending bills, starting fiscal year 2026.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: federal workers and taxpayers hurt by shutdowns; voters frustrated by Congressional gridlock.
• Loses: Members of Congress facing delayed paychecks; lawmakers without personal savings to absorb the gap.

What it does

• Requires payroll administrators to deposit member pay into escrow if appropriation bills aren't passed by October 1.
• Releases escrowed pay once that chamber passes all spending bills, or at the end of the Congress.
• Applies separately to House and Senate; one chamber's delay doesn't penalize the other.
• Complies with the 27th Amendment by guaranteeing eventual payment, not forfeiture.

Why should I care?

Government shutdowns close parks, delay paychecks for federal workers, and stall services families rely on. Supporters say lawmakers need skin in the game to meet deadlines. Critics argue wealthy members won't feel the pinch, and the rule may pressure rushed, bad budgets. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.