S. 3168Heading to a voteJobs & the economy
Federal workers would keep pay during shutdowns
Data as of July 11, 2026
During a government shutdown, this bill would keep federal workers' paychecks going on their normal schedule instead of making them wait.50-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill requires that federal workers, certain government contractors, and military members continue to be paid on their regular payday schedule during a government shutdown. For shutdowns already underway when the bill becomes law, agencies must pay workers within 7 days of passage. Once Congress passes a real funding bill, those paycheck costs are charged against it.
Who does it affect?
The bill covers all federal workers affected by a shutdown, both those required to keep working and those sent home without pay.
Why does it matter?
Without this bill, federal workers and military members may go without pay for the full length of a shutdown and receive it only after it ends. This bill changes when the money is delivered, not whether workers are ultimately owed it.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Funds from U.S. Treasury
- Restricted to payroll only
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- Senate committee
- Senate vote — You are here
- House
- President's desk
Right now: it's headed for a Senate floor vote. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the President.
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How it's being covered
Real reporting on this bill, labeled by each outlet's political lean.
- Bills to pay FAA and TSA workers during shutdowns get introduced but keep stalling in Congress
winnipegfreepress.comMar 28, 2026
- Bills to pay FAA and TSA workers during shutdowns keep stalling in Congress
reviewjournal.comMar 28, 2026
Lean labels describe the news outlet, not this bill or any party. Ratings by AllSides.
Official title
Shutdown Fairness Act
- Introduced:
- November 9, 2025
- Latest action:
- November 10, 2025
Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 267.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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