(Washington DC) – Today U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) marked the 1,000^th day since the Democrat-controlled Senate last passed a fiscal year budget:  

“The time to pass a budget is long overdue. Our nation is more than $15 trillion in debt. Consistent failure to set a budget threatens our children’s future as well as the long-term economic recovery our nation and Nevada desperately need. Passing a budget every year is one of Congress’ most basic responsibilities, which is why I introduced the No Budget, No Pay Act. If Members of Congress are not doing their job, then they should not get paid,” said Senator Dean Heller. 

Since the last time the Senate passed a budget in April 2009, our national debt has increased by $4 trillion. 

Frustrated with Congress’ consistent failure to pass a budget, Senator Heller introduced the No Budget, No Pay legislation. This bill (S.1981) requires Congress to pass a concurrent budget resolution in order to get paid. Pay is not awarded retroactively if Congress passes a budget after the deadline has passed. 

Heller’s legislation, initially introduced in July 2011, is gaining momentum. Most recently, this legislation was included in No Label’s “Make Congress Work” proposal to reform Congress. No Budget No Pay was the only proposal that had relevant legislation already introduced in Congress.