U.S. Senator James Lankford has reintroduced bipartisan legislation designed to prevent federal government shutdowns and keep Congress in session until spending bills are passed.
The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act of 2026 would automatically continue government funding in 14-day increments if Congress fails to approve appropriations bills on time. The proposal would also limit taxpayer-funded travel for members of Congress and congressional staff during the funding lapse.
“Americans are tired of worthless government shutdown drama and Congress using federal workers and government services as pawns in political standoffs,” Lankford said. “The Prevent Government Shutdowns Act ends government shutdowns forever with a simple idea: if Congress doesn’t do its job, Congress doesn’t get to go home.”
Under the bill, Congress would not be allowed to recess for more than 23 hours during the automatic continuing resolution period. Legislative activity would also be largely limited to appropriations-related business until funding measures are approved.
The legislation was first introduced in 2019 and previously came within three votes of passing the U.S. Senate, according to Lankford’s office.
Lankford is partnering with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan on the legislation.
