HB5738, titled the “No Budget, No Pay Act,” would condition the pay of Members of Congress on Congress meeting annual budget and appropriations deadlines. Specifically, by October 1 of each fiscal year, both chambers would be required to approve a concurrent budget resolution and pass all regular appropriations bills. If Congress fails to do so, Members would not be paid for the period of noncompliance.
The bill also sets up a certification process for determining whether Congress met the deadline and for identifying the days during which pay is withheld. In the Senate, the Secretary would request certification from the Senate Budget and Appropriations Chairs; in the House, the Chief Administrative Officer would request certification from the House Budget and Appropriations Chairs. The measure would take effect on September 29, 2027.
Impact
The bill would amend the practical operation of congressional compensation by prohibiting the use of Treasury funds for Member pay during any period when Congress has not enacted a budget resolution and all regular appropriations bills by October 1. It would create a new statutory enforcement mechanism tied to the budget process, while leaving the underlying budget and appropriations laws in place. The bill would affect Members of Congress, the House and Senate Budget and Appropriations Chairs, and administrative officers responsible for payroll certification.
Sentiment
The available context shows the bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on House Administration, with no recorded votes or committee debate provided. Based on the text and title, the measure appears intended as a fiscal accountability and deadline-enforcement proposal, likely appealing to supporters of budget discipline and opposition to congressional inaction. No formal opposition or amendment activity is reflected in the provided materials.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely whether withholding congressional pay is an effective or appropriate way to force timely budget and appropriations action. Supporters may view it as a strong incentive for Congress to meet deadlines, while critics may argue it is symbolic, could be unfairly punitive, or may not meaningfully solve broader budget gridlock. Another possible issue is the administrative complexity of determining compliance and calculating unpaid periods, though the bill assigns that role to the relevant budget and appropriations chairs.