In Senate·Last action 175 days ago

Automatic shutdown pay for required federal workers

Officially: Shutdown Fairness Act

S. 3012 would automatically fund pay and benefits for certain federal workers, service members, and some contractors who must work during a shutdown. It only applies when no continuing or full-year funding is in place, and the temporary spending is later charged to the agency’s eventual appropriation.

Where it stands

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What this bill actually does

Covers excepted employees across all three branches of the federal government, including certain contractors and all active-duty service members.
Automatically provides money from Treasury funds not otherwise appropriated to pay excepted employees during any period when an agency has no temporary or full-year funding.
Pays normal wages, allowances, pay differentials, benefits, and other regular payments for work done during a funding lapse.

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Where your representatives stand

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The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Protects Essential Workers' Pay: Ensures timely pay for federal employees required to work during shutdowns, preventing financial hardship.
Maintains Critical Services: Helps retain essential staff, reducing absenteeism and service disruptions in areas like public safety and national security.
Promotes Fairness: Addresses the unfairness of requiring employees to work without pay, improving morale and retention.

✕Arguments against

Reduces Pressure to End Shutdowns: By insulating some workers from the effects of shutdowns, it could reduce the urgency for lawmakers to resolve funding disputes.
Creates Unequal Treatment: Only "excepted" employees are guaranteed pay, potentially creating resentment among furloughed workers.
Potential for Increased Costs: Guaranteeing pay could increase federal expenses, especially if more categories of workers are included.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in Senate

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Senate Committee

Under Senate committee consideration

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Senate Floor Vote

Voted on by Senate

Latest: Upon reconsideration, cloture on the motion to proceed to the measure not invoked in Senate by Yea-Nay Vote. 53 - 43. Record Vote Number: 609. (11/7/2025)

NOV 7

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Passed Senate

Approved by Senate

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House Review

Sent to House for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Automatic shutdown pay for required federal workers

Where your representatives stand

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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