U.S. Senator James Lankford introduced legislation to ensure members of the U.S. Capitol Police continue to receive pay during the ongoing federal government shutdown.
The Pay Our Capitol Police Act would provide continuing appropriations to pay officers, civilian staff, and essential contractors who support Capitol Police operations. The measure, retroactive to October 1, 2025, would remain in effect until Congress passes appropriations or until September 30, 2026.
“The United States Capitol Police are dedicated men and women who have sworn an oath to protect every American who walks through the doors of the Capitol,” Lankford said. “Day after day, they stand watch over this institution and the people it represents. They deserve our full support, not to be caught in the middle of a political standoff created by Senate Democrats who refuse to reopen the government.”
U.S. Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina co-sponsored the bill along with Oklahoma Senator Markwayne Mullin.
Other co-sponsors include Senators Lisa Murkowski, Lindsey Graham, Dan Sullivan, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Kevin Cramer, Jerry Moran, and Rick Scott.
