[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 44 (Monday, March 10, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H1061]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    MEMBERS OF CONGRESS SHOULD SHOW UP TO WORK WITHOUT PAY DURING A 
                                SHUTDOWN

  (Mr. VINDMAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, as a veteran, I cannot support a budget 
that would cut $23 billion from care for veterans exposed to burn pits 
and toxic substances during their service to our country.
  This budget also harms local police by cutting hundreds of millions 
to COPS grants and justice assistance grants.
  The Federal workers I represent know firsthand the disruptions and 
uncertainty that come when lawmakers fail to govern responsibly. 
Hardworking Americans understand that if you don't do your job, you 
don't get paid. Congress should be no different.
  I am proud to work with Congressman Fitzpatrick on a bipartisan 
commonsense bill that forces Members of Congress to show up to work 
without pay during a shutdown. This would encourage real cooperation, 
prevent last-minute crises, and ensure that lawmakers are putting the 
American people first.
  This budget is an unserious proposal that guts healthcare programs 
that Virginians count on. I won't vote for a bill that will lead to 
kids, veterans, and seniors losing the care they need.

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