Today, U.S. Representative Mike Coffman introduced the Pay Our Military Act in response to a potential shutdown of the Federal government. A shutdown could occur on Thursday, October 1 if Congress does not pass a continuing resolution to fund the government.
Coffman’s legislation would ensure that men and women serving in the armed services continue to receive pay even in the case of a shutdown. The bill would also protect the pay of Department of Defense civilians and contractors necessary to support service members, as well as National Guard troops activated in the event of a presidential emergency declaration.
“The possibility of another government shutdown is on the horizon this week, so I have introduced the Pay Our Military Act,” Coffman said. “Our Soldiers, Airman, Sailors and Marines cannot go on furlough so It is inexcusable for them to go without pay in the event of a government shutdown. As a Marine Corps combat veteran, I understand how important it is for our service members to focus on protecting us and our nation and not on whether they can keep food on the table and the lights on at home.”
“Paying our military should not be a casualty of left or right squabbling. I urge my fellow members of Congress to pass this bi-partisan bill so our military service members can focus on defending our nation” Coffman said.
Coffman passed similar legislation in 2013 that shielded the Department of Defense from the last government shutdown.
