Protecting Military Pay

WASHINGTON—During a government shutdown, members of the Armed Services go without pay, yet they are still expected to carry out their duties as their financial obligations mount. This unacceptable reality threatens military recruitment, retention, and overall readiness. In response to Washington’s ongoing partisan gridlock and the resulting shutdown, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) has cosponsored H.R. 5401, the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026, to guarantee that America’s service members continue receiving their pay on schedule.

“Our nation’s warriors selflessly serve our nation. As a member of Congress, it is my solemn duty to honor their service and heroism. That’s why I am proud to join my colleagues in supporting this legislation to pay our troops and ensure the men and women who are on the front lines do not suffer financial distress as a result of Washington’s dysfunction,” said Congressman Bean.

BACKGROUND 

H.R. 5401 appropriates existing unappropriated Treasury funds for FY26 for the purpose of paying: 

• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, both on active and reserve duty, as well as the Coast Guard.
• Civilian employees and Department of Defense (DoD) contractors, who the Secretary of Defense designates as supporting the Armed Forces. 

These funds shall be available until one of the following conditions is met: 

• A continuing resolution is passed that includes FY26 funding for DoD is passed;
• An appropriations bill funding the DoD is passed;
• Until January 1, 2027. 

Click HERE to read the bill text.

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