Understanding Government Shutdowns: Impact on Federal Workers and Proposed Solutions
A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to approve funding for federal agencies. Before 1980, agencies typically continued operating during a funding lapse, but a series of legal opinions in 1980 and 1981 changed that. President Ronald Reagan experienced eight shutdowns during his presidency, with the longest lasting three days. There were several shutdowns between 1990 and 2013, with the longest occurring in late 2018 to early 2019 for 34 days. Senator Thune plans to introduce a bill to pay essential federal employees, including active-duty military, during the shutdown.
Law enforcement officers from the Department of Homeland Security, including TSA, ICE, CBP, and the Secret Service, will be paid if they work during the shutdown. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem announced that these officers will receive a "super check" by October 22, covering lost pay, overtime, and pay for the next pay period. Members of the military and FBI have also been assured of pay during the shutdown. The legal authority to continue paying federal workers during a shutdown remains uncertain.
In conclusion, government shutdowns have occurred throughout history due to funding lapses by Congress. Essential federal workers, including law enforcement officers and military personnel, are promised pay during the shutdown. Senator Thune is working on a bill to ensure that these workers receive their pay during the current shutdown.