Schatz Fights For Military Pay During Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) called on Republicans to join Democrats in passing the Pay Our Military Act, legislation to continue paying military servicemembers during the federal government shutdown. Senate Democrats requested unanimous consent to quickly pass the bill early Saturday morning, but it was blocked by Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.). Senator Schatz and Democrats have continued to fight for its passage throughout the weekend.

“Our military servicemembers and their families should not be punished simply because this White House can’t get it together to make a deal,” said Senator Schatz, a co-sponsor of the Pay Our Military Act. “These brave men and women don’t stop protecting our country just because the government shuts down. Those who serve our country deserve the pay they have earned, and I’m going to keep working as long as possible to make sure they get it.”

The Pay Our Military Act would ensure that members of the Armed Forces continue to receive pay and related compensation during the government shutdown.  The bill also helps ensure that many Department of Defense civilian employees directly supporting military personnel and operations can continue working and receiving compensation. The bill also provides for death benefits to the families of service members.

Home to the United States Pacific Command, Hawai‘i has nearly 50,000 active duty and reserve members of the military.

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