For weeks now servicemembers and their families have been concerned about the effect a full-blown government shutdown would have on their monthly pay. It appears that Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-TX) may be able to offer some relief in the form of new legislation. Known as the 'Ensuring Pay for Our Military Act' Gohmert's bill would effectively guarantee military pay will continue, in the in the event of a government shutdown on April 8.

The following is an excerpt from the original press release:

This legislation ensures that members of the United States Military get their paycheck on time in the event that Congress cannot pass a budget.

This bill will appropriate necessary funds to ensure that members of the military, including reserve components, continue to receive pay and allowances for their service when a funding gap occurs. That could be caused by the failure to enact interim or full-year appropriations for the Department of Defense, which results in many members serving without a paycheck until the shutdown is over. It is not enough for the military to know they will receive back pay after the shutdown is over. They need to know that their paycheck will arrive on time.

This is welcome news, but this bill must be passed and signed quick enough to ensure servicemembers don't miss their pay on April 15. One way to help is to contact your elected officials and tell them to support Gohmert’s 'Ensuring Pay for Our Military Act.'

Update: I was able to speak to a member of Rep. Gohmert's staff who explained that military retirees and veterans receiving monthly GI Bill or comp and pen payments were not included in this bill because they are already protected from the affects of a government closure.

Click here to send an e-mail to your elected representative demanding they support this bill.