Does Military Get Paid During a Government Shutdown?
The concept of a government shutdown is often shrouded in mystery, leaving many wondering what exactly happens to government employees, including the military, during this period. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of the government shutdown and answer the pressing question: Does military get paid during a government shutdown?
What is a Government Shutdown?
A government shutdown occurs when Congress fails to pass a budget or continuing resolution (CR) to fund the government, resulting in a partial or complete closure of non-essential government services. This means that non-essential federal employees are furloughed, which is a temporary layoff without pay.
How Does This Affect the Military?
The military is considered essential personnel, which means that they are required to continue working during a government shutdown. This includes:
- Active-duty personnel
- Reserve component personnel on active duty
- National Guard personnel on Title 10 orders
- Military personnel performing essential duties, such as:
- Healthcare providers
- Food service personnel
- Maintenance personnel
- Security personnel
Do Military Personnel Get Paid During a Government Shutdown?
Yes, military personnel continue to receive their regular paychecks during a government shutdown. This is because the military is considered essential personnel, and their pay is funded by the Department of Defense (DoD) budget, which is separate from the federal budget.
How is Military Pay Funded?
The DoD budget is funded through a combination of:
- Annual appropriations
- Reapportionment of funds from previous years
- Use of existing funds
The DoD has the authority to use these funds to continue paying military personnel during a government shutdown.
What About Benefits and Allowances?
Military personnel may experience some disruptions to their benefits and allowances during a government shutdown, such as:
- Discontinuation of certain benefits: Some benefits, such as the Commissary and Exchange programs, may be suspended or reduced.
- Delays in payment of bonuses and incentives: Bonuses and incentives may be delayed or reduced due to the shutdown.
- Impact on medical care: Some medical services may be delayed or reduced due to the shutdown.
What About Non-Military Government Employees?
Non-military government employees, including federal civilians, contractors, and civilian personnel, are considered non-essential personnel and are subject to furloughs during a government shutdown. This means that they may not receive pay during the shutdown period.
Key Takeaways:
- Military personnel are considered essential personnel and continue to receive their regular paychecks during a government shutdown.
- The DoD budget is funded separately from the federal budget, ensuring that military personnel continue to receive their pay.
- Non-military government employees, including federal civilians, contractors, and civilian personnel, are subject to furloughs and may not receive pay during a government shutdown.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, military personnel are exempt from the pay disruptions associated with a government shutdown. While some benefits and allowances may be affected, military personnel can rest assured that their pay will continue uninterrupted. In contrast, non-military government employees may face furloughs and pay disruptions during a shutdown.
