Lawmaker Calls for Accountability as Shutdown Drags On
With the government shutdown stretching into historic territory, Wisconsin Congressman Bryan Steil has introduced legislation that would block members of Congress from receiving paychecks while essential federal workers go unpaid. Steil’s proposal comes as many lawmakers voluntarily decline their pay, highlighting frustrations with a system that allows representatives to collect salaries even when military personnel, FBI agents, and air traffic controllers miss theirs.
“Congress Shouldn’t Get Paid If Workers Don’t”
The bill, introduced Tuesday, aims to ensure Congress shares consequences felt by everyday Americans during shutdowns. “Congress should not get paid if essential federal workers aren’t getting paid,” Steil said, promising to push for bipartisan support. The measure is designed to increase pressure on lawmakers to resolve fiscal impasses promptly.
Second-Longest Shutdown Puts Workers at Risk
The ongoing government shutdown is now the nation’s second-longest, affecting thousands of crucial employees. Active-duty military, law enforcement, and transportation workers have all been impacted, missing paychecks while still performing vital services. Steil’s bill seeks to draw attention to the widening gap between elected officials and the workforce they oversee.
Broadening the Debate on Shutdown Reform
As the shutdown deepens, Steil’s initiative adds momentum to calls for more substantial reform, with similar bills discussed in years past but rarely making it into law. Advocates argue such proposals help ensure lawmakers face direct consequences for unresolved budget disputes, putting pressure on all sides to negotiate and end gridlock that harms regular Americans.