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Government Shutdown: New fears over furloughed backpay
We’re now one week into the government shutdown, and federal workers could be the ones paying the price
WASHINGTON - We’re now one week into the government shutdown, and federal workers could be the ones paying the price.
The White House says it’s possible there won’t be back pay for furloughed workers.
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Backpay uncertainty
FOX 5’s Melanie Alnwick reports the latest threat from the Trump administration is intended to turn up the heat, according to House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Still, many members of Congress say the law is clear – that federal workers are owed back pay.
During the last government shutdown in 2019, President Trump signed a law guaranteeing back pay for furloughed workers. Now, Trump’s Office of Management and Budget director says there’s a loophole, claiming the law requires back pay to be specifically written into any bill funding the government.
READ MORE: Can federal worker backpay be withheld? OMB reportedly deletes law from FAQ documentation
Economic impact
About 750,000 federal employees have been furloughed since the shutdown began a week ago. Others in essential roles are still reporting to work.
But unless Congress reaches an agreement before Oct. 15, they’ll all miss their next paychecks.
The White House estimates the shutdown is costing the U.S. economy $15 billion each week.
The Source: Information in this article comes from the Associated Press.