True Shutdown Fairness Act

This bill would provide money to pay federal employees during the government funding lapse that began on October 1, 2025. Pay would go to all agency employees, whether they kept working or were furloughed, and also to contractors who support those employees, active-duty military members, and reserve members who serve during the lapse. The funding would last until regular or temporary funding for each agency is passed, and would take effect as if passed on September 30, 2025. The bill would also bar agencies from using funds during the lapse to carry out layoffs that permanently cut staff, or to place employees on administrative leave for more than 10 work days in a calendar year.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Chris Van Hollen Democrat sponsor
• 30 cosponsors