Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bill to Block Congressional Pay During Government Shutdowns

U.S. Senator Rick Scott has introduced new legislation aimed at preventing members of Congress from receiving pay during periods when the federal government is shut down due to a lapse in funding.

Under the proposed bill, senators and members of the House of Representatives would not collect paychecks while the government remains closed. Compensation would resume only after a budget agreement is reached and federal operations return to normal. Currently, even during government shutdowns, members of Congress continue to receive their salaries, while many federal employees are furloughed or required to work without immediate pay.

Scott argues that lawmakers should face the same financial consequences as the Americans affected by political gridlock in Washington. According to the Florida senator, if federal workers and military families are forced to endure delayed pay because Congress fails to pass funding legislation, then members of Congress should not be exempt from similar hardship.

Supporters of the measure say it would increase accountability and put pressure on lawmakers to avoid prolonged shutdowns. Critics, however, point out that constitutional provisions — including the 27th Amendment, which addresses changes to congressional pay — could complicate efforts to withhold salaries.

The proposal is expected to spark debate on Capitol Hill as lawmakers weigh the legal and political implications of tying congressional pay directly to government funding deadlines. It remains unclear whether the bill will gain enough bipartisan support to advance through both chambers of Congress.