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Government shutdowns disproportionately impact federal contract workers, who are not guaranteed back pay unlike federal employees. While federal workers eventually receive their owed wages, contractors face uncertainty and potential non-payment, even if their contracts are fully funded. This can lead to significant financial strain for individuals and businesses, especially small ones. Legislation attempting to address this gap has so far failed to pass, leaving millions of private sector workers vulnerable during funding lapses.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.