Legislation sponsored on Nov. 13 by U.S. Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) would ensure members of the U.S. Armed Forces and essential employees of the Federal Aviation Administration receive pay during any federal government shutdown.
If enacted, the Pay Our Patriots Act, H.R. 6044, also would remove their pay from political bargaining so service members are never used as leverage, and would allow essential officials to stay committed to their mission rather than being distracted by whether or not they’ll receive a paycheck, according to a bill summary provided by the congressman’s office.
“The people who defend us, keeping our skies safe and serving our country, deserve better than to be treated like bargaining chips,” Rep. Mast said. “By ensuring that they’re paid, we guarantee America’s security.
“This bill is about putting our national defense first and honoring the commitment of those who reported to duty every single day — whether or not they’d be fairly compensated,” he added.
H.R. 6044 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, the U.S. House Armed Services Committee, and the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.