Does Congress get paid during a government shutdown?

Washington — A looming government shutdown has hundreds of thousands of federal employees worried that they could go without pay if Congress fails to reach a deal to approve or extend funding for their agencies.

Lawmakers must approve more spending by Oct. 1, the start of the new fiscal year, or risk a costly shutdown that could have wide-ranging impacts on federal services if it drags on long enough. Republicans in control of the House are divided about how to move forward, with a vocal hard-right contingent fiercely opposed to a short-term deal to extend funding while talks about broader spending levels continue.

Federal employees in critical positions would be required to stay on the job if funding lapses. Many others would be forced to stay home. Both groups would have their paychecks delayed until Congress approves more spending. Most federal contractors might not get paid at all.