DES MOINES, IA — Representative Zach Nunn (IA-03) joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers led by Representative Jen Kiggans (VA-02) to introduce the Pay Our Troops Act to ensure servicemembers continue receiving paychecks in the event of a government shutdown.
“As a 20-year combat veteran and Air Force Colonel, I know how important every paycheck is,” said Rep. Nunn. “The House did its job. We passed a clean CR to keep the government open and continue paying our troops while we negotiate full-year funding.”
The Pay Our Troops Act guarantees all active-duty servicemembers, including those in the reserves and National Guard on active-duty orders, continue to receive pay in the event of a government shutdown. That includes the nearly 1,800 Iowa National Guard troops that are currently deployed to the Middle East to support Operation Inherent Resolve.
On September 19, 2025, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 5371 to fund the government through November 21, 2025, along largely partisan lines, with all but one Democrat voting against the measure. However, the Senate failed to pass the bill, with all but one Democrat voting no.
“It’s time for Senate Democrats to step up and pass the House’s bill so we can continue negotiating through regular order,” continued Rep. Nunn. “In the meantime, I will continue working to ensure America’s servicemembers receive their paychecks, even if Democrats decide to play politics with a government shutdown.”
The Pay Our Troops Act guarantees pay and allowances for:
- Active-duty servicemembers, including members of the Coast Guard, Reservists, and National Guard units on active-duty orders
- Civilian personnel at the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security who directly support the men and women who serve
- Contractors providing mission-critical support to our armed forces
This legislation has been endorsed by the National Military Family Association, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, United Steelworkers, Blue Star Families, and the Military Officers Association of America.
Text of the bill can be found here.
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