1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

When Congress fails to pass a federal budget, it’s the American people who suffer. Families lose income, veterans lose benefits, federal workers face furloughs, and communities are left uncertain about their future. Yet during these same shutdowns, elected officials in Washington continue to receive their paychecks. That’s not public service — that’s privilege without accountability. We, the undersigned citizens of the United States, believe that leadership comes with responsibility. If our government cannot fulfill its most basic duty — keeping the nation funded and functioning — then no branch of government should be exempt from the consequences. We call for a Constitutional Amendment that enforces these fundamental standards of fairness and accountability: 1. No Pay During Shutdowns: When the federal government shuts down due to budget failure, all salaries for Members of Congress, the Executive Branch, and the Judiciary must be suspended until a budget is passed. 2. Full-Time Accountability: Members of Congress must meet the same 2,080-hour annual work standard as every full-time American employee, or reimburse the difference to the U.S. Treasury. A government shutdown should mean a true shutdown — not selective hardship for ordinary Americans while those in power remain protected. Public office is not a guaranteed paycheck; it is a duty to serve. This effort is not partisan. It is about fairness, integrity, and restoring trust in the institutions that serve us all. If citizens must sacrifice, their leaders should, too. We urge Congress to introduce and support legislation beginning the process of enacting this amendment. The American people expect their government to work — and when it fails to do so, accountability must start at the top. Sign this petition to send a clear message: No Budget, No Pay. No Exceptions. Accountability for All.