The gist

• Drops congressional pay to $1 for the rest of the session anytime a shutdown happens because Congress failed to pass a budget.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: federal workers and taxpayers frustrated by shutdowns; accountability advocates.
• Loses: all 535 Senators and Representatives, who normally keep their $174,000 salary during shutdowns.

What it does

• Overrides the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 (2 U.S.C. 4501) protections on congressional pay.
• Triggers $1 pay the first day any federal agency loses appropriations funding.
• Keeps the $1 rate through the entire session, even after the shutdown ends.
• Takes effect only after the next general federal election following enactment.

Why should I care?

Shutdowns close national parks, freeze federal paychecks, and stall services families rely on. Supporters say lawmakers should feel the same financial squeeze as workers they leave unpaid. Critics argue wealthy members would shrug it off while less-rich lawmakers face pressure to cave on bad deals, and note the Constitution may block mid-term pay changes. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.