The True Shutdown Fairness Act would compensate federal employees for the government shutdown that began on October 1, 2025, by appropriating funds to pay their regular salaries, allowances, benefits, and other standard compensation during the lapse in funding. The bill covers all federal employees regardless of their shutdown status—whether they were furloughed or deemed "essential" workers—as well as military members on active duty, reserve component members, and contractors who support federal employees. The compensation would continue until Congress passes new appropriations legislation for the affected agencies. Additionally, the bill prohibits agencies from conducting layoffs or reductions in workforce during the shutdown and limits administrative leave to no more than 10 work days per calendar year, though it does not restrict voluntary separation agreements. The bill is retroactively effective to September 30, 2025, meaning payments would cover the entire shutdown period once enacted, with future appropriations bills responsible for covering these costs when passed.
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