Should Congress guarantee pay for military personnel during a government shutdown?
The Pay Our Troops Act ensures that military members, reservists, and certain Department of Defense and Coast Guard civilians and contractors continue to receive pay and allowances in the event of a government shutdown during FY2026. Payments will persist until either new funding is enacted or January 1, 2027, whichever occurs first. Sponsor: Rep. Jennifer Kiggans (Republican, Virginia, District 2)
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How do you feel?
Opponents say
• At the time of research and publication, no official opposing statements have been identified. This does not mean that nobody opposes the bill, nor does it mean that opposing statements will not be made in the future.
Proponents say
• "Our servicemembers should never have to worry about missing a paycheck because Washington can’t do its job,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “As a former Navy helicopter pilot, wife of a veteran, and Mom of a servicemember, I know firsthand the sacrifices military families make every single day. The last thing they should face is financial uncertainty caused by partisan gridlock. This bill is about one thing: keeping faith with those who keep us free." Source: Rep. Jen Kiggans (Republican, Virginia, District 2), House Armed Services Committee Member
• "America’s warfighters should never be forced to bear the brunt of an ill-conceived government shutdown. And although Republicans will fight to keep the government open and running, precautions must be taken in case Democrats refuse to come to the table. Hoosiers and all Americans agree that in all circumstances, the heroes in our Armed Forces must retain all of their benefits, and The Pay Our Troops Act makes certain they are protected." Source: Rep. Mark Messmer (Republican, Indiana, District 8), House Armed Services Committee Member
• "Members of the armed forces defend our nation and our way of life every day, and we owe it to them to ensure they and their families never experience hardship as a result of political dysfunction in Washington. House Republicans continue to engage in a partisan process that is driving us towards a shutdown that threatens the well-being of thousands of New Hampshire active duty and reserve personnel who would be forced to work without pay in the event of a government shutdown. This legislation guarantees that those who serve and defend our nation never miss a paycheck, no matter what happens in Washington." Source: Rep. Chris Pappas (Democrat, New Hampshire, District 1)
