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The Senate unanimously approved a resolution on Thursday to suspend senators' pay during government shutdowns. Sponsored by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), the resolution aims to discourage lawmakers from blocking funding bills. The resolution does not require approval from the House or President Trump and will take effect after the upcoming midterm elections.
Under the new rule, if a government shutdown occurs, senators' salaries will be withheld and placed in an escrow account, unavailable until the government reopens. The resolution defines a shutdown as a lapse in funding for one or more federal agencies, meaning even partial shutdowns will affect senators' pay.
The Senate's decision follows recent shutdowns, including a 43-day full government shutdown last fall and a 76-day shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security earlier this year. These shutdowns were due to disputes over funding and policy reforms.
Kennedy expressed concerns that some Senate Democrats might attempt to shut down the government before the elections to create chaos. However, the resolution's implementation is delayed due to the 27th Amendment, which prohibits salary changes for Congress members until after the next House election.
The resolution received broad support, with Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) praising it as a tool to pressure lawmakers into reaching agreements. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) also indicated his support, ensuring its passage.