Bill > HR5738

This bill, called the "No Budget, No Pay Act," aims to incentivize Congress to complete its budgetary responsibilities by withholding pay from Members of Congress if they fail to approve a concurrent resolution on the budget and pass all regular appropriations bills by October 1 of each fiscal year. The bill defines key terms such as "Member of Congress" (excluding the Vice President) and specifies that the House and Senate Budget and Appropriations Chairs will determine compliance. If Congress does not meet the October 1 deadline, no funds may be appropriated for Congressional pay, and Members will not receive retroactive pay for the period of non-compliance. The determination process involves the Secretary of the Senate and the Chief Administrative Officer of the House of Representatives requesting certifications from their respective Budget and Appropriations Chairs about compliance and the duration of pay withholding. Importantly, the bill is set to take effect on September 29, 2027, giving Congress ample time to prepare for this new requirement. The legislation's primary goal is to encourage timely budget and appropriations processes by creating a direct financial consequence for legislative delays.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5738/all-info