A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States requiring Members of Congress to forfeit their compensation during Government shutdowns.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Graham, Lindsey [R-SC]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 29, 2025
Bottom line
This joint resolution seeks to amend the Constitution to directly link congressional pay to the prevention of government shutdowns, aiming to increase accountability for legislative inaction on appropriations.
What it actually does
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that would require Members of Congress to forfeit their compensation during any period when there is a lapse in appropriations, commonly known as a government shutdown. It further mandates that these forfeited amounts be transferred to the general fund of the Treasury to be used for reducing the Federal debt.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this amendment would hold Members of Congress directly accountable for their failure to pass appropriations bills, thereby incentivizing them to avoid disruptive government shutdowns. They believe it would demonstrate a commitment to fiscal responsibility and public service, aligning congressional interests with those of federal employees and the public who are impacted by shutdowns.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this amendment is largely symbolic and does not address the root causes of government shutdowns, which are often complex political disagreements rather than a lack of incentive for individual members. Some may also contend that it could disproportionately affect members with fewer personal financial resources, potentially creating a barrier to public service.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to evaluate its content quickly.
Article--, Section 1
Forfeiture of Congressional Compensation During Shutdowns
This section mandates that if the federal government experiences a lapse in appropriations, meaning a shutdown due to a failure to pass regular or continuing funding bills, Members of Congress will not receive their salary for the duration of that period. This directly ties their personal compensation to the government's operational status, aiming to create a financial disincentive for legislative inaction.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this provision creates a direct financial incentive for Members of Congress to fulfill their fundamental duty of funding the government, thereby preventing disruptive shutdowns. They believe it fosters accountability and demonstrates that lawmakers share in the consequences of legislative inaction.
Critics contend
Critics may contend that while seemingly straightforward, this provision does not address the underlying political gridlock that causes shutdowns. They might argue that the financial impact on individual members is minor compared to the broader economic and societal costs of a shutdown, making it an ineffective deterrent.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for congressional accountability with concerns about whether financial penalties alone can resolve complex political impasses leading to shutdowns. It also raises questions about the practical impact on members with varying financial situations.
Article--, Section 2
Allocation of Forfeited Compensation to Federal Debt Reduction
This section specifies that any compensation forfeited by Members of Congress during a government shutdown will not simply be withheld, but will be specifically transferred to the general fund of the Treasury. The explicit purpose of these funds is to be used for reducing the Federal debt, adding a fiscal responsibility component to the amendment.