Peace Garden News

Senate Democrats have voted against the Shutdown Fairness Act, a bill aimed at ensuring pay for federal employees required to work during government shutdowns. The legislation, introduced by Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), sought to provide compensation for groups such as Coast Guard and active duty service members, air traffic controllers, Border Patrol agents, federal contractors, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, federal law enforcement officers, and excepted employees in both the legislative and judicial branches.

Following the vote, Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) expressed his support for the bill and criticized the opposing side. "Democrats are using the government shutdown to play political tug-of-war, but federal workers are not leverage, they’re hostages. We’re talking about law enforcement officers, service members, air traffic controllers, and many more. It’s time for Democrats to end their absurd obstruction and make sure essential workers can pay for housing and feed their families," said Cramer.