Messmer Joins Legislation to Protect Servicemember Pay From Government Shutdowns

Washington, D.C., September 26, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Armed Services Committee member Mark Messmer (R-IN) announced his support for H.R. 1932, the Pay Our Troops Act of 2026.

Introduced by Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA), this legislation ensures members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including the Coast Guard, will never miss a paycheck in the event of a government shutdown.

“America’s warfighters should never be forced to bear the brunt of an ill-conceived government shutdown. And although Republicans will fight to keep the government open and running, precautions must be taken in case Democrats refuse to come to the table,” said Rep. Messmer. “Hoosiers and all Americans agree that in all circumstances, the heroes in our Armed Forces must retain all of their benefits, and The Pay Our Troops Act makes certain they are protected.”

BACKGROUND:

The Pay Our Troops Act of 2026 guarantees pay and allowances for:

  • Active-duty servicemembers, including members of the Coast Guard and Reserve Components;
  • Civilian personnel at the Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security (for the Coast Guard) who directly support servicemembers; and
  • Contractors providing mission-essential support to servicemembers.

The authority would remain in effect until regular appropriations are enacted or until January 1, 2027.

Organizations that support the Pay Our Troops Act include the National Military Family Association, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, United Steelworkers, Blue Star Families, and the Military Officers Association of America.

Read the full text of the legislation here.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is serving our warfighters in Congress, click here.

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