Congressman Tom Barrett of Michigan’s 7th District joined a bipartisan group of first-term U.S. House members in requesting that congressional pay be withheld during government shutdowns, according to an April 16 announcement. The lawmakers sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson expressing support for the Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act (H.R. 5891).
The request comes as Congress faces ongoing debates over funding the federal government, which can lead to shutdowns affecting public services and employees. The lawmakers said that holding members accountable for failing to fund the government is necessary to restore trust in Congress.
“As new Members of Congress, we came to Washington with fresh energy and perspective, committed to delivering results and restoring trust in this institution,” the letter stated. “While we will continue to have honest disagreements over spending levels and policy priorities, we can all agree that Congress must fulfill this basic duty.” They added: “When Congress fails to do this essential job, the consequences are immediate and widespread. … Those who have no role in funding the government are often the ones who feel the impact first and most,” continuing, “Yet … Members of Congress continue to receive their salaries. That disconnect undermines public trust and sends the wrong message to the people we serve.”
Barrett was joined by Representatives Sheri Biggs (South Carolina), Rob Bresnahan (Pennsylvania), Gabe Evans (Colorado), Julie Fedorchak (North Dakota), Randy Fine (Florida), Brandon Gill (Texas), Craig Goldman (Texas), Maggie Goodlander (New Hampshire), Mike Haridopolos (Florida), Mark Harris (North Carolina), Jeff Hurd (Colorado), Mike Kennedy (Utah), Sam Liccardo (California), Ryan Mackenzie (Pennsylvania), Mark Messmer (Indiana), Tim Moore (North Carolina), Bob Onder (Missouri), David Taylor (Ohio) and Tony Wied (Wisconsin).
The Withhold Member Pay During Shutdowns Act aims to ensure that members of Congress do not receive their salaries when they fail in their responsibility of passing funding legislation.
A full copy of the letter is available online.
