When the Pay Stops but the Work Continues: Supporting Hill Staff in a Shutdown

By Danielle Stewart
POPVOX Foundation

It is no secret that Congressional staff work in an unpredictable environment. From late-night votes to canceled district work periods, working in Congress means you learn to go with the flow (even if the flow means canceling weekend plans)! But what many are not prepared for is having to work without pay, being furloughed from your position, or missing a paycheck. Unfortunately, during a government shutdown, that is the reality for thousands of federal employees, including Congressional staff. 

During a shutdown, Legislative branch staff are subject to excepted status (being deemed essential to the office but will work without being paid) or furloughed status (being sent home without pay until legislative funding is restored). Though back pay historically has been included in funding agreements following a shutdown, it is not legally guaranteed, and this continued uncertainty can provide serious financial strain for staff. 

While each office manages its own personnel matters, we encourage Members and senior staff in Congressional offices to consider the following examples of how Executive branch agencies are assisting their employees. Learn more here.