Does Military Get Paid If Government Shuts Down?
The government shutdown, a phenomenon that has become all too familiar in the United States. When the government shuts down, many people wonder if essential services, including the military, will continue to function as usual. In this article, we’ll delve into the question of whether military personnel receive paychecks during a government shutdown.
Direct Answer:
The short answer is yes, military personnel will continue to receive paychecks during a government shutdown. This is because the military’s pay and benefits are funded through a separate account, known as the Pay Our Military (POM) Act, which is not affected by the shutdown.
Understanding the POM Act:
The POM Act was passed in 2013, specifically to ensure that military personnel continue to receive their pay and benefits during a government shutdown. The act provides for the continuation of pay and allowances for military personnel, including active-duty, reserve, and National Guard members.
Why is the POM Act Necessary?
The POM Act is necessary because the military is a vital national security institution that must continue to operate, even during a government shutdown. The United States has a global military presence, and our armed forces are responsible for defending our nation and its interests. Paying our military personnel is essential to maintaining national security and stability.
What About Benefits?
In addition to pay, the POM Act also ensures that military personnel continue to receive their benefits, including:
- Healthcare: Military personnel and their families will continue to receive medical care and benefits through the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Military Health System.
- Commissary privileges: Military personnel and their families will still be able to shop at commissaries, which offer discounted groceries and other essentials.
- Housing: Military personnel and their families will continue to receive housing allowances and other benefits related to their military housing.
What About the Impact on Military Operations?
During a government shutdown, military operations will continue to function as usual, but with some limitations. Some non-essential activities may be delayed or cancelled, such as:
- Maintenance: Some maintenance activities may be delayed or reduced to prioritize essential services.
- Training: Some training exercises may be cancelled or postponed.
- Personnel actions: Some personnel actions, such as promotions and re-enlistments, may be delayed.
What About Federal Contractors?
Federal contractors, who work for the military or support military operations, may not receive pay during a government shutdown. These contractors are considered non-essential personnel, and their work is not critical to national security. However, some contractors who provide essential services, such as medical care or maintenance, may continue to work and receive pay.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the military will continue to receive pay and benefits during a government shutdown, thanks to the Pay Our Military (POM) Act. This ensures that our nation’s armed forces can continue to operate, defend our nation, and protect our interests. While some non-essential activities may be delayed or cancelled, military personnel will continue to receive their pay and benefits, and the country’s national security will not be compromised.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Q: Will the military still receive funding during a government shutdown?
A: Yes, the military will continue to receive funding for essential services, including pay and benefits. - Q: Will military personnel still receive their benefits, such as healthcare and housing?
A: Yes, military personnel and their families will continue to receive their benefits, including healthcare, commissary privileges, and housing. - Q: Will federal contractors receive pay during a government shutdown?
A: No, federal contractors who are considered non-essential personnel will not receive pay during a government shutdown.
