The proposed amendment would prohibit members of Congress from receiving compensation for any period during which a government shutdown is in effect. Section 1 defines a shutdown as a lapse in appropriations for any federal agency or department and bars pay for that time. Section 2 gives Congress the power to enforce the amendment through appropriate legislation. The measure seeks to hold legislators accountable for the consequences of funding failures. If ratified, it would become part of the Constitution and require a three‑fourths state legislature approval within seven years.