Norton Urges White House to Ensure Back Pay for Contract Workers in Case of Future Government Shutdown

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) wrote President Biden today urging the White House to begin to examine the legal authority it possesses to ensure that low-wage contract workers receive back pay in the event that Republicans force a shutdown at the beginning of fiscal year 2024. Norton noted that this is prudent given Republicans’ current reckless negotiating positions over the debt ceiling.

“Many federal contract workers earn little more than the minimum wage and receive few, if any, benefits,” Norton wrote. “Congress has provided back pay to federal employees furloughed during shutdowns, who often work in the same buildings as these low-wage contract workers, but not to low-wage contract workers, who often perform similar jobs.”

The full letter follows.

May 24, 2023

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr.

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

Dear Mr. President:                     

            The debt ceiling negotiations suggest that Republicans may force a government shutdown at the start of fiscal year 2024.  While I certainly hope that is not the case, it is imperative to plan for that possibility.  I write regarding the impact shutdowns have on low-wage contract workers.  I urge the administration to begin examining the legal authority it possesses to ensure that low-wage contract workers receive back pay following a shutdown.

            Many federal contract workers earn little more than the minimum wage and receive few, if any, benefits.  Congress has provided back pay to federal employees furloughed during shutdowns, who often work in the same buildings as these low-wage contract workers, but not to low-wage contract workers, who often perform similar jobs.  While some federal contract workers are unionized with a slightly better wage, almost all are the lowest paid workers in the federal government and should not be penalized if Congress fails to do its job to keep the government open.

            Thank you for your consideration.

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