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Bill

HR 1973

No Pay for Congress During Default or Shutdown Act

119th Congress Introduced by Chris Deluzio and 10 co-sponsors

HR 1973 suspends congressional pay during government shutdowns or defaults, promoting accountability and encouraging lawmakers to prioritize fiscal responsibility.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 1973

Summary of HR 1973: No Pay for Congress During Default or Shutdown Act

Purpose and Intent

The No Pay for Congress During Default or Shutdown Act (HR 1973) aims to ensure that members of Congress do not receive their salaries during periods of government shutdowns or when the federal government defaults on its obligations. The bill seeks to hold elected officials accountable for their role in maintaining government operations and fiscal responsibility.

Key Provisions

  • Salary Suspension: The bill stipulates that if the federal government enters a shutdown or defaults on its debt obligations, all members of Congress will forfeit their pay until the situation is resolved.
  • Automatic Resumption of Pay: Once the government reopens or the default is resolved, congressional salaries will automatically resume.
  • Reporting Requirements: The bill may include provisions for regular reporting on the status of government operations and any shutdowns or defaults, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Affected Parties

  • Members of Congress: All elected representatives in both the House of Representatives and the Senate will be directly impacted by the provisions of this bill.
  • Federal Employees: While the bill primarily targets congressional pay, it indirectly affects federal employees who may be furloughed during a government shutdown.
  • Taxpayers: The legislation is designed to align congressional compensation with the fiscal health of the government, potentially increasing public trust in elected officials.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on March 10, 2025.
  • Committee Referrals: Upon introduction, HR 1973 was referred to the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform for further consideration. The Speaker of the House will determine the timeline for these committees to review the bill.

Conclusion

HR 1973 represents a legislative effort to enhance accountability among members of Congress by linking their compensation to the operational status of the federal government. By suspending pay during shutdowns or defaults, the bill aims to encourage lawmakers to prioritize government functionality and fiscal responsibility. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for congressional accountability and public trust will be closely monitored.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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