WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration is warning federal employees that they may not receive guaranteed back pay during the current government shutdown, a significant shift in policy that could impact around 750,000 furloughed workers. A memo from the Office of Management and Budget indicates that any back pay would require congressional approval, contrasting with legislation signed by Trump in 2019, which mandated payment for federal workers affected by shutdowns.
The memo's release comes as the government enters its seventh day of a shutdown, drawing allegations of strong-arm tactics by the Republican administration to pressure lawmakers for a resolution. House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested the memo was an urgent call for Democrats to act, though he acknowledged not fully understanding its implications.
Democratic Senator Patty Murray responded with harsh criticism, alleging that the administration's move defies established legal standards, emphasizing that federal workers are entitled to their back pay during shutdowns. Murray called it a 'baseless attempt' to intimidate workers, noting the clear legal obligation for pay.
The Trump administration's stance is being met with skepticism, particularly as many essential employees are required to work without pay during this period. The current memo, reported first by Axios, claims that while the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act mandates back pay, it is not self-executing and requires new legislation for actual disbursement.
Congress is currently in a standoff, with both parties struggling to reach an agreement. Democrats seek health care funding to maintain essential federal subsidies, while Republicans maintain that those discussions can wait.
As the standoff continues, the implications for the furloughed workers remain uncertain, and legal challenges could be forthcoming if back pay is denied.
The memo's release comes as the government enters its seventh day of a shutdown, drawing allegations of strong-arm tactics by the Republican administration to pressure lawmakers for a resolution. House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested the memo was an urgent call for Democrats to act, though he acknowledged not fully understanding its implications.
Democratic Senator Patty Murray responded with harsh criticism, alleging that the administration's move defies established legal standards, emphasizing that federal workers are entitled to their back pay during shutdowns. Murray called it a 'baseless attempt' to intimidate workers, noting the clear legal obligation for pay.
The Trump administration's stance is being met with skepticism, particularly as many essential employees are required to work without pay during this period. The current memo, reported first by Axios, claims that while the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act mandates back pay, it is not self-executing and requires new legislation for actual disbursement.
Congress is currently in a standoff, with both parties struggling to reach an agreement. Democrats seek health care funding to maintain essential federal subsidies, while Republicans maintain that those discussions can wait.
As the standoff continues, the implications for the furloughed workers remain uncertain, and legal challenges could be forthcoming if back pay is denied.
