During a U.S. federal government shutdown, 'excepted' federal employees who are required to work may continue performing duties but may not receive pay until appropriations are restored.
October 27, 2025
high
temporal
Describes federal pay and work status during funding lapses.
The Shutdown Fairness Act states its goal is to appropriate funds for pay and allowances of excepted federal employees for periods of work performed during a lapse in appropriations.
October 14, 2025
high
legislation
Description of the stated purpose of the Shutdown Fairness Act as presented in reporting on federal funding options during a lapse in appropriations.
The Government Employee Fair Treatment Act of 2019 (GEFTA) is a federal law enacted in 2019 that addresses pay and benefits for federal employees affected by government shutdowns.
January 01, 2019
high
temporal
GEFTA was enacted in response to a previous government shutdown to clarify treatment of federal employees during funding lapses.
During a federal government shutdown, some essential 'excepted' federal employees are typically required to continue working but usually do not receive pay until after the government reopens.
January 01, 1980
high
operational
Typical treatment of essential federal workers during funding lapses.