Pay Our Military Act of 2025
Summary
The Pay Our Military Act of 2025 (S. 3030) aims to provide continuing appropriations for military pay and support in the event of a government shutdown. It ensures that members of the Armed Forces, civilian personnel of the Department of Defense and Homeland Security (Coast Guard), and contractors supporting the military receive their pay and allowances during periods when regular appropriations are not in effect. The bill appropriates funds from the Treasury for fiscal year 2026 to cover these expenses.
Expected Effects
The Act would ensure that military personnel and essential support staff continue to be paid during government shutdowns. This prevents disruption to national security and maintains morale within the armed forces. The appropriations are temporary and will be charged against future appropriations once they are enacted.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures uninterrupted pay for military personnel during government shutdowns.
- Provides financial security for civilian personnel and contractors supporting the military.
- Maintains operational readiness and morale within the armed forces.
- Avoids potential disruptions to national security.
- Offers stability to military families during uncertain times.
Potential Disadvantages
- May incentivize government shutdowns by providing a temporary workaround.
- Could lead to increased government spending if not managed responsibly.
- The Act relies on future appropriations to cover expenditures, potentially burdening future budgets.
- It does not address the root causes of government shutdowns.
- The Act's focus is limited to military pay, potentially neglecting other essential government services during shutdowns.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's provision for the common defense (Preamble) and Congress's power to appropriate funds for the military (Article I, Section 8). By ensuring military personnel are paid during shutdowns, the Act supports national security, a core function of the federal government. The act does not violate any specific constitutional provision.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).