Summary
During a U.S. government shutdown, lawmakers continue to receive pay due to constitutional requirements, while many other federal workers, including janitors hired by contractors, typically do not get paid. Proposals to halt lawmaker pay during shutdowns have been made but not enacted. Contractors, unlike direct federal employees, are generally not covered for back pay in these situations.
Key Facts
- U.S. federal government shutdowns affect pay for many federal workers, but not Congress members.
- Congress members continue to receive their salaries due to constitutional provisions.
- Lawmakers have attempted to pass laws to stop their pay during shutdowns, but none have succeeded.
- Most federal employees can receive back pay once the shutdown ends, but contractors typically do not.
- Many janitorial staff on federal properties are hired by private contractors and may not get paid during shutdowns.
- Each federal agency decides whether to suspend contracts during a shutdown, impacting contractor employees.
- Contracting companies sometimes cover pay until funding runs out but are not obligated to provide back pay.
- Federal contractors often include cost estimates in their bids to manage the risk of not being paid during shutdowns.
