Summary
Speaker Mike Johnson said the House will not vote on a bill to ensure military members get paid during the government shutdown, as he believes the necessary actions have already been taken. Johnson's decision is part of a strategy to put pressure on Democrats during the shutdown. A related bill, supported by many lawmakers, aims to ensure military pay but hasn't moved forward.
Key Facts
- Speaker Mike Johnson decided against voting on a bill for military pay during the shutdown.
- Military members could miss their October 15 paycheck if there is no action from Congress.
- The bill to secure military pay includes support from both parties and covers all branches of the armed forces.
- Active-duty troops are expected to keep working without immediate pay but will receive back pay once the government reopens.
- Virginia Rep. Jen Kiggans is pushing for the military pay bill to be addressed quickly.
- The House has not been voting since September 19, with Johnson saying their responsibilities are already completed.
- Similar measures to ensure military pay during shutdowns were passed by Congress in 2013 and 2019.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune mentioned the bill might not be necessary, suggesting previous actions should suffice.
