Congressman Wants to Cut Lawmakers’ Pay in Event of Shutdown

Rep. John James puts forth the “Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Act,” seeking to withhold pay from members of Congress if they fail to reach a spending agreement and allow a government shutdown.

U.S. Rep.-elect John James (R-Mich.) (R.) delivers remarks in the House Chamber during the third day of elections for Speaker of the House at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington on Jan. 05, 2023. Win McNamee/Getty Images

Rep. John James (R-Mich.) is attempting to prevent members of Congress from receiving their paychecks if they do not perform the necessary work to maintain government operations.

Mr. James spoke to journalists on July 29 about his legislation that is planned to incentivize lawmakers to work toward reconciliation to stave off a looming government shutdown. The act, referred to by the lawmaker as the “Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Act,” is also known as H.R. 4287 and was introduced on June 22 but has yet to be voted out of committee.