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HJRES 128

Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.

119th Congress Introduced by Rick Allen and 19 co-sponsors

HJRES 128 seeks to amend the Constitution, stopping Congress from receiving pay during government shutdowns, promoting accountability and timely budget passage.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRES 128

Summary of HJRES 128

Bill Number: HJRES 128
Title: Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a Government shutdown is in effect.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced Date: September 30, 2025
Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 128 aims to amend the United States Constitution to prohibit Members of Congress from receiving any form of compensation during periods when a Government shutdown occurs. The intent behind this amendment is to hold lawmakers accountable for their role in the appropriations process and to encourage timely passage of budgetary measures.

Key Provisions

The proposed amendment includes the following key provisions:

  1. Compensation Prohibition:

    • Members of Congress (both Representatives and Senators) would not receive any compensation during any period when a Government shutdown is in effect.

  2. Definition of Government Shutdown:

    • A Government shutdown is defined as a lapse in appropriations for any Federal agency or department due to the failure to enact a regular appropriations bill or a continuing resolution.

  3. Ratification Process:

    • The amendment will become valid as part of the Constitution once ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states within seven years of its submission.

Affected Parties

  • Members of Congress: The primary impact of this bill is on the compensation of elected officials in Congress, specifically during periods of government shutdown.
  • Federal Employees and Agencies: While not directly addressed, the bill indirectly affects federal employees who may be furloughed or face uncertainty during government shutdowns, as it seeks to incentivize Congress to avoid such situations.

Legislative Actions

  • September 30, 2025: The bill was introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Sponsors

HJRES 128 has several sponsors and cosponsors, including:

  • Primary Sponsor: Ralph Norman
  • Cosponsors: Dusty Johnson, Robert E. Latta, Sheri Biggs, Russell Fry, Ryan Mackenzie, John Joyce, Jimmy Patronis, Jack Bergman, Max L. Miller, Jeff Crank, Brian Babin, Elijah Crane, Cory Mills.

Related Bills

  • HJRES 129: This bill is noted as a companion to HJRES 128, suggesting a legislative effort to address similar issues regarding government shutdowns and congressional accountability.

This summary provides a clear overview of HJRES 128, outlining its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on Congress and federal operations. The proposed amendment reflects a growing concern about government shutdowns and the accountability of elected officials in the appropriations process.

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

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