US Senators James Lankford (R-OK), Tim Scott (R-SC), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) today introduced the Pay Our Capitol Police Act, legislation ensuring members of the United States Capitol Police, their civilian staff, and essential contractors continue to receive pay during a government shutdown.
“The United States Capitol Police are dedicated men and women who have sworn an oath to protect every American who walks through the doors of the Capitol,” said Lankford. “Day after day, they stand watch over this institution and the people it represents. They deserve our full support, not to be caught in the middle of a political standoff created by Senate Democrats who refuse to reopen the government.”
“The United States Capitol Police performs an essential service to our nation, protecting our nation’s Capitol and all who serve within it,” said Scott. “The Pay Our Capitol Police Act guarantees they receive the pay and support they have earned. These officers protect the American people and an institution of our democracy, and they should not have to miss paychecks because of political games in Washington.”
Background
The Pay Our Capitol Police Act provides:
- Continuing appropriations to pay members of the Capitol Police performing active service.
- Pay for civilian employees and contractors who directly support Capitol Police operations.
- Automatic coverage during any period in which interim or full-year appropriations are not in effect, retroactive to October 1, 2025.
Joining Lankford, Scott, and Mullin in introducing the legislation are Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Rick Scott (R-FL).
The bill is effective immediately upon enactment and remains in place until the passage of the next appropriations legislation or September 30, 2026.
You can read the full text of the bill HERE.
