During a government shutdown, some federal workers—like border patrol agents, air traffic controllers, and members of the military—are legally required to keep working even though Congress hasn't passed a budget, but under current rules they don't actually get paid until the shutdown ends. This bill sets aside money so those workers, plus certain contractors who support them, get paid on time during the shutdown itself instead of waiting for it to be over. It also makes clear this pay applies to active-duty military members. The change is written to apply retroactively, as if it had started on September 30, 2025.