Hoyer, Beyer, Wittman, Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Protect Federal Workers' Pay During a Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) joined Congressmen Don Beyer (VA-08) and Rob Wittman (VA-01) in introducing bipartisan legislation to guarantee back pay for all federal employees, regardless of individual furlough status, for the duration of a federal government shutdown.

A shutdown temporarily suspends paychecks for federal employees, and retroactive pay for federal workers must be approved by Congress. The Beyer-Wittman legislation guarantees that no federal employee loses pay during a government shutdown. Funding for the federal government expired at midnight on January 20.

"A government shutdown is costly and unnecessary," said Congressman Hoyer. "And during a government shutdown, federal employees should not be penalized. Our federal civilian workforce keeps our air clean, ensures our food is safe to eat, and protects our borders. We must make sure that public servants are not penalized for the inability of Congressional Republicans to do their job."

"I thank Congressmen Beyer and Wittman for introducing this legislation, and for their support of our dedicated civilian workforce," continued Congressman Hoyer. "A government shutdown is wasteful, hurts our economy, and puts our national security at risk. I will continue to call on my colleagues across the aisle to come to the table and work with Democrats to responsibly fund the government."

In addition to Reps. Hoyer, Beyer, Wittman, the bill has 37 bipartisan cosponsors. Text of the legislation can be viewed here.