WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJRES 129

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 Derrick Van Orden

HJRES 129 aims to amend the Constitution, ensuring Congress members forfeit pay during government shutdowns, promoting accountability and timely budget approvals.

Introduced in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJRES 129

Summary of HJRES 129

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HJRES 129
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: October 03, 2025
Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HJRES 129 aims to amend the United States Constitution to ensure that Members of Congress do not receive any form of compensation during periods when a Government shutdown occurs. The intent behind this proposal is to hold Congress accountable for its role in preventing government shutdowns, thereby encouraging timely passage of appropriations bills and maintaining government operations.

Key Provisions

  • Compensation Prohibition: The proposed amendment states that no Representative or Senator shall receive compensation during any period when a Government shutdown is in effect.
  • 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 continuing resolution.

Affected Parties

  • Members of Congress: The primary impact of this bill would be on Senators and Representatives, who would forfeit their salaries during government shutdowns.
  • Federal Agencies and Departments: While not directly affected by the compensation clause, the bill indirectly impacts the functioning of federal agencies that may be subject to shutdowns due to funding lapses.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HJRES 129 was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.
  • Ratification Process: For the amendment to become part of the Constitution, it must be ratified by the legislatures of three-fourths of the states within seven years of its submission.

Related Legislation

  • HJRES 128: This bill is noted as a companion measure, suggesting that there may be similar legislative efforts aimed at addressing government shutdowns and congressional accountability.

Conclusion

HJRES 129 represents a significant proposal aimed at reforming the compensation structure for Members of Congress during government shutdowns. By linking congressional pay to the operational status of the federal government, the bill seeks to incentivize timely legislative action and accountability among elected officials.

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

Sign in to ask a question.