FUBAR Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Mills, Cory [R-FL-7]
- Committees
- Oversight and Government Reform Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 12, 2025
Bottom line
This bill aims to financially penalize Members of Congress for government shutdowns by drastically reducing their pay, intending to incentivize timely budget approvals and accountability.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the "FUBAR Act," mandates that if a federal government shutdown occurs due to a failure to pass a regular appropriations bill or continuing resolution, the pay of all Members of Congress will be reduced to one dollar per day. This reduced pay rate would apply from the first day of the shutdown until the last day of that session of Congress, taking effect after the next general election following the bill's enactment.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill holds Members of Congress directly accountable for their failure to pass appropriations bills, ensuring they share in the financial consequences of a government shutdown. They believe it will create a strong incentive for bipartisan cooperation and timely budget agreements, thereby preventing future lapses in government funding and demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that while seemingly punitive, this measure could be largely symbolic and may not effectively address the complex political and ideological disagreements that often lead to budget impasses. Some may also contend that it could disproportionately affect Members who are not wealthy, potentially making it harder for individuals without significant personal financial resources to serve in Congress during periods of legislative gridlock.
The bill is exceptionally short and straightforward, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions quickly and evaluate its implications.
Section 2(a)
Reduction of Congressional Pay During Appropriations Lapse
This provision stipulates that if the federal government experiences a lapse in appropriations (a shutdown) because Congress fails to pass a budget or continuing resolution, the annual salary for every Member of Congress will be reduced to one dollar per day. This reduced pay rate would apply from the first day of the shutdown until the last day of that session of Congress, ensuring a direct financial consequence for legislative inaction on the budget.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly links congressional performance on budget duties to their personal financial well-being, fostering greater accountability. They believe it will compel lawmakers to prioritize timely budget passage and compromise, thereby reducing the frequency and duration of government shutdowns.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision is largely symbolic and may not effectively prevent shutdowns, as the underlying political disagreements are often more profound than personal financial incentives. They could also argue it might create an undue financial burden on Members who are not wealthy, potentially discouraging public service from diverse economic backgrounds.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire for congressional accountability during shutdowns against concerns that such a measure might not address the root causes of political gridlock, or could inadvertently create financial disincentives for public service for some individuals.