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7h ago

Kennedy Files Bills to Cut or Escrow Congressional Pay During Shutdown

The move seeks to shift pressure during a prolonged shutdown that has stalled over Democrats’ push to extend ACA subsidies.

UNITED STATES - OCTOBER 3: Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., is seen in the U.S. Capitol on the third day of the government shutdown on Friday, October 3, 2025. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images)

Overview

  • Sen. John Kennedy introduced the No Shutdown Paychecks to Politicians Act to stop member pay during a shutdown with no back pay.
  • The Louisiana Republican also filed the Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act to place lawmaker salaries in escrow for the duration of the lapse.
  • Rep. Bryan Steil submitted a House companion to the escrow proposal as the funding lapse enters its fifth week.
  • Kennedy said the aim is for Congress to “feel the same pain” as unpaid workers, naming troops, air traffic controllers, and federal employees.
  • He acknowledged questions about the 27th Amendment and cited a 2013 effort as precedent, while the Senate stalemate continues over extending ACA premium subsidies.