The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution on May 13, 2026 [2], to withhold senators’ pay during any future government shutdowns [1].
The measure aims to align the financial burden of funding disputes between lawmakers and the federal employees who are typically furloughed or denied pay during such periods. By forfeiting their salaries, senators intend to increase the pressure on negotiations to avoid shutdowns entirely.
Sponsored by Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA), the resolution was approved by a voice vote [1]. Under the terms of the agreement, senators will not receive paychecks while the government is shut down, though they will receive back-pay once the government reopens [1].
Kennedy said the measure is about "putting our money where our mouth is" [4]. He said the resolution demonstrates that senators will not be paid while the American people suffer a shutdown [5]. Kennedy said the move shows that lawmakers are willing to share the sacrifice with federal workers [6].
There are conflicting reports regarding the exact timing of the vote, with some sources citing Wednesday [2] and others citing Thursday [1]. Additionally, reports differ on when the resolution takes effect; some sources state it will apply to any future shutdowns immediately [3], while others indicate it is set to take effect after the 2026 midterm elections [1].
The resolution passed without opposition, marking a rare moment of total agreement in the chamber regarding the personal financial consequences of legislative deadlock [1].
“Putting our money where our mouth is.”
This resolution creates a personal financial incentive for senators to reach budget agreements before deadlines. While the provision for back-pay ensures that lawmakers do not suffer a permanent loss of income, the immediate loss of liquidity during a crisis is intended to signal solidarity with the federal workforce and discourage the use of shutdowns as a political leverage tool.
