Summary
President Trump suggested that some furloughed federal workers might not receive back pay after a government shutdown, going against a 2019 law that ensures payment. This was discussed during a meeting in the Oval Office and involves a draft memo from the White House, which raises legal questions.
Key Facts
- President Trump talked about the possibility of not giving back pay to some federal workers after a government shutdown.
- About 600,000 federal workers are affected by the current furlough situation.
- There is a 2019 law that requires federal employees to receive back pay after a shutdown ends.
- A draft White House memo argues against the automatic payment, saying Congressional action is needed.
- The Office of Management and Budget issued guidance that initially confirmed automatic pay restoration but later removed this statement.
- The memo is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to apply pressure on Democrats during the shutdown.
- The 2019 law was designed to prevent Congress from needing to pass new legislation for back pay after future shutdowns.
