Will Some Furloughed Workers Miss Out on Back Pay?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, President Trump revealed that certain furloughed federal employees may not receive back pay after the government reopens. This revelation comes amid ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans regarding the government shutdown. As the furlough impacts hundreds of thousands, the implications for federal workers remain uncertain.
Key Takeaways
- Trump warns some furloughed workers may miss back pay.
- Political tensions persist between Democrats and Republicans.
- Approximately 750,000 federal workers impacted by the shutdown.
- Essential workers continue to operate without pay.
- Previous shutdowns led to guaranteed back pay legislation.
Washington, Oct 8 (NationPress) President Donald Trump indicated that certain furloughed federal workers may not receive back pay when the government reopens, following prior warnings regarding potential layoffs during the shutdown.
“It really depends on the individuals involved. The Democrats have placed many in significant risk, but it varies based on who we’re discussing,” Trump stated during a briefing in the White House Oval Office.
“Generally, we aim to support our employees, although some may not warrant such support, and we will address them differently,” he remarked.
The U.S. President did not elaborate on which furloughed federal employees might miss out on back pay, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Earlier, Axios revealed that furloughed federal employees lack guaranteed pay for their enforced absence during the government shutdown, referencing a draft memorandum from the White House.
As Trump continued to assign blame to Democrats for the impasse, Democratic leaders pointed fingers at Republicans.
“The Republicans initiated the government shutdown instead of resolving health care issues for Americans,” remarked Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer on X.
Following the previous government shutdown that lasted 35 days and concluded in January 2019, Trump enacted a law ensuring back pay for federal employees impacted by future shutdowns.
Prior to this legislation, the U.S. Congress routinely sanctioned back pay for federal workers once funding legislation was approved to reopen the government.
An analysis by the Congressional Budget Office last week indicated that approximately 750,000 federal workers are anticipated to be furloughed during this shutdown.
Federal employees classified as essential, including air traffic controllers and law enforcement personnel, will continue their duties without pay until the government resumes operations.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy mentioned on Monday that the shutdown is placing additional strain on already overwhelmed air traffic controllers.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the broader implications of this announcement. The uncertainty surrounding furloughed workers' pay highlights the political divide and raises critical questions about the government’s responsibility to its employees. This situation deserves thorough examination and understanding of its impact on American workers.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Will furloughed workers receive back pay?
Some furloughed federal workers may not receive back pay after the government reopens, as indicated by President Trump.
What is the reason for the government shutdown?
The shutdown is a result of ongoing disputes between Democrats and Republicans regarding funding and policy issues.
How many federal workers are affected by the shutdown?
Approximately 750,000 federal workers are expected to be furloughed during this shutdown.
What types of federal employees are considered essential?
Essential federal employees include air traffic controllers and law enforcement officers who continue to work without pay during the shutdown.
What was the previous government shutdown duration?
The previous government shutdown lasted for 35 days before concluding in January 2019.
