This week, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed a bill to ensure the Coast Guard gets paid next time the government shuts down.
“It is unacceptable for the men and women who protect us to be treated like second class citizens over partisan bickering,” said Rep. Jeff Van Drew (D - N.J.). “I hope that Congress does its most basic job and fund the government, but in the event of another shutdown, the Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act ensures that the U.S. Coast Guard will continue to be funded.”
The Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act, or H.R. 367, is identical to legislation introduced by Rep. Van Drew in January — during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
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The Coast Guard was the only branch of the Armed Forces that did not receive pay during the shutdown, as it does not fall under the Department of Defense which remained operational. Coasties were either furloughed or worked without pay for the duration of the shutdown. Many turned to the community, food banks, and loans for financial support.
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The bill is now waiting to be scheduled for a full House vote.