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HR 5891

Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act

119th Congress Introduced by Sheri Biggs and 8 co-sponsors

HR 5891 ensures Congress members forfeit their pay during government shutdowns, promoting accountability and encouraging timely budget resolutions to prevent disruptions.

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
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Bill Summary · HR 5891

Summary of HR 5891: Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act

Purpose and Intent

The Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act (HR 5891) aims to address the issue of congressional pay during government shutdowns. The primary intent of the bill is to ensure that members of Congress do not receive their salaries while the federal government is unable to operate due to a funding lapse. This legislation seeks to hold lawmakers accountable for their role in the appropriations process and to incentivize timely budget resolutions.

Key Provisions

  • Salary Withholding: The bill stipulates that members of Congress will not receive their pay during any period of government shutdown. This applies to both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
  • Definition of Shutdown: A government shutdown is defined as a period during which the federal government ceases operations due to the absence of appropriated funds.
  • Implementation: The bill outlines that the withholding of pay will commence immediately upon the declaration of a government shutdown.

Affected Parties

  • Members of Congress: All elected representatives in both chambers of Congress will be directly affected by this legislation, as their salaries will be withheld during shutdowns.
  • Federal Employees: While the bill primarily targets congressional pay, it indirectly affects federal employees who may face furloughs or unpaid leave during shutdowns, as it emphasizes the need for timely funding.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced in the House on October 31, 2025.
  • Committee Referrals: Upon introduction, HR 5891 was referred to the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The Speaker of the House will determine the period for consideration of the bill by these committees.
  • Next Steps: Following committee review, the bill may be subject to amendments, further debate, and a vote in the House.

Conclusion

HR 5891 seeks to promote accountability among lawmakers by withholding their pay during government shutdowns. By doing so, it aims to encourage timely budget negotiations and prevent prolonged disruptions in government services. The bill is currently under consideration in the House, with further legislative action pending.

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

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